The Indian Express 02.07.2013
HUDA introduces an eco-friendly way to explore Gurgaon
According to a senior HUDA official, a pilot project will be run in a couple of areas to assess the response and then a proposal for setting up more stations will be accepted. Initially, the pilot will run along four stations — HUDA City Centre, IFFCO Chowk, MG Road and Dronacharya.
HUDA will provide land on the green belt for these stands, while the operation of the project will be handled by a private firm, an official said.
S Narayan, Operations Manager of Planet Advertising said: "We had shared a proposal with the HUDA authorities to set up cycle stands just like the ones we set up in BRT, Delhi. After it became popular there, we were asked to create a pilot in Gurgaon. The idea is to generate awareness among residents and commuters about the benefits of cycling and use of non-motorable transportation (NMT) which is otherwise, lacking in Gurgaon."
Planet Advertising is also planning to introduce maps on the stands to guide people not familiar with Gurgaon. The bikes introduced at the pilot station are green sports mountain rangers.
One stand has the capacity tohold 20 cycles, each of which can be rented at Rs 10 per hour. But the charge increases to Rs 100 at night (so that the cycles are returned timely), officials said.
To hire a cycle, an original ID proof (voter card, driving license or passport) is required to be submitted with the attendant and the mobile number of the person will also be noted. The ID will be returned when the cycle is returned. One can also become a member for an annual charge of Rs 100.
The stand will function from 9 am to 7 pm and free parking will also be available on priority basis. Any physical damage to the cycle, will be charged. The planning and operation is our responsibility and we hope to create more of such stands soon, said the official.
Children and students need to seek permission or submit their parents' ID proofs for a ride. If a person keeps a cycle for more than 24 hours, an FIR will be filed at the nearest police station.
