Now, commuters can park their bikes at these 10 metro stations in Bengaluru; View details: Report

In a bid to make commuting around Bengaluru greener and more convenient, the Directorate of Urban Land Transport (DULT) has launched a project to extend cycle docks to ten more Bengaluru Metro stations. The Indian Express reported.

The initiative follows a successful pilot and includes security features such as monitored parking zones, making it safer for commuters to use bicycles. (HT file)

This initiative, in collaboration with the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), builds on the success of an earlier pilot that saw bicycle racks and ‘pedal gates’ installed at 10 stations as part of last-mile connectivity. The goal? To make it easy for metro riders to hop on a bike and cycle to their final destination, improving last-mile connectivity, the report said.

As the pilot proved popular, especially at stations like Yelachenahalli and Konanakunte Cross in South Bengaluru, where occupancy reached an impressive 113 percent during the week, the BMRCL approached DULT to consider expanding the setup across more stations.

After analyzing factors such as passenger numbers, land availability and existing transit options, DULT has selected stations including Kengeri Bus Terminal, KR Pura, Madavara and National College for new bicycle parking installations, the release said. Some will even feature bicycle sheds with protective roofs and surface treatments, designed for extra comfort and safety.

One reason for the positive response to the initial project is the sense of security provided by installing bicycle sheds within monitored parking zones. Commuters prefer these protected spaces because they feel safer leaving their bikes in areas that are constantly monitored, the report said.

DULT is also conducting another survey at 20 metro stations to identify further improvements for last-mile connectivity. This research will take into account recent improvements in the quality of roads, footpaths and other infrastructure around stations to optimize routes for cyclists and pedestrians. As Bengaluru continues its urban expansion, these cycle docks can provide residents with a much-needed option for sustainable, hassle-free commuting, the report said.