The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is in discussions to relaunch the Smart Bike public bicycle sharing service in the city, aiming to strengthen last-mile connectivity and promote eco-friendly urban mobility.
The Smart Bike system, which was suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic due to operational and financial constraints, is now poised for a revival with upgraded infrastructure and improved digital features. Civic officials believe the relaunch will support the cityās efforts to reduce traffic congestion and encourage non-motorised transport.
The bicycle-sharing initiative was originally introduced to provide commuters with a convenient and affordable last-mile solution. Users could rent bicycles through a mobile application and return them at designated docking stations across the city. The revived service is expected to cover nearly 30 key locations, including metro rail stations, major bus hubs and prominent commercial zones.
Officials said the move would particularly benefit office-goers, students and daily commuters who depend on public transport, as well as tourists looking for convenient short-distance travel options. As part of the relaunch, the Corporation is encouraging the operating agency to integrate multiple digital payment options, including UPI and mobile wallets, to ensure seamless transactions. The upgraded system is expected to feature app-based booking and real-time tracking, flexible rental plans with hourly and subscription models, expanded docking stations and improved maintenance and monitoring mechanisms.
The initiative aligns with Chennaiās broader smart city vision and sustainable transport goals. With increasing vehicular congestion and pollution levels, public bicycle sharing is viewed as an effective way to cut carbon emissions and bridge connectivity gaps between different modes of public transport. If implemented successfully, the Smart Bike relaunch could mark a significant step toward transforming urban mobility and promoting greener commuting habits in Chennai.