Shillong, February 19: The Meghalaya Assembly on Thursday witnessed a spirited discussion over the “Ride Shillong” electric bicycle-sharing initiative, with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma stating that around 1,600 people have already used the service and that no government funds were spent on the project.
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| During the launch of Ride Shillong, CM Conrad K. Sangma rides an e-bike along city roads to promote sustainable urban mobility. (Image: X@SangmaConrad) |
Replying to Starred Question No. 56, the Urban Affairs Department clarified that the state government did not sanction any funds for the initiative. Instead, 20 electric cycles were rented under the SUM-ACE (Sustainable Urban Mobility, Air Quality, Climate Action and Accessibility) project, supported through a grant and contribution from a German development agency in collaboration with the state.
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During the discussion, an opposition member questioned the feasibility of the project in the absence of dedicated cycling lanes on Shillong’s roads. The minister acknowledged that most roads in the old city lack cycle tracks, though provisions have been included in new township projects.
The Chief Minister defended the initiative as an experimental step towards promoting sustainable transport, emphasizing that innovation is necessary to address traffic congestion. He said the objective is to encourage cycling and walking in the long term, which could help reduce congestion in the city.
The government, he added, remains open to suggestions and will review the project’s performance before considering any expansion to other areas.
