Kochi: It seems like the metro city is warming up to bicycles as more people are seen pedalling to their destinations. The demand for the cycles that were introduced as the last mile connectivity of the metro rail has significantly soared, reported Manorama Online. A station-based bicycle-sharing service called ‘mybyk’ launched the cycles, in association with the Kochi Metro, to resurrect the cycling culture in Kochi. Around 950 cycles are available to hire at various spots in the city. They are parked in front of all the metro stations except in Aluva and Tripunithura. Besides, cycles are available at the water metro terminals in Kakkanad, High Court, Vypin, Fort Kochi, CUSAT and Infopark. Bicycles haven’t been introduced at the Aluva station yet due to space constraints. Meanwhile, cycles will be soon introduced in Tripunithura. Bicycles are in great demand at Edappally as most number of them are hired from there. Besides, there are many takers at South Station, Fort Kochi and Marine Drive too. In a study conducted last year, it was found out that the cycles in the metro stations are mostly used by senior citizens.
Meanwhile, ‘mybyk’ is planning to launch more cycles considering the increased demand for them. You could unlock the cycle by downloading the mybyk mobile app. After logging in, you need to set a password. You could then select the cycle number and then unlock it using the password. When the ride ends, place the cycle on the rack and click the ‘end’ option. Mybyk cycles could be hired for up to 10 hours for just Rs 20. However, you need to pay a deposit of Rs 500, which will be refunded when you return the cycle. The rate would be Rs 69 for using the cycle up to 24 hours and Rs 149 for three days; the deposit for these plans is Rs 100. Besides, there are plans for up to a week to three months. Those who have purchased plans of more than three days can keep the cycle with them until the validity expires. In case of any complaints, you could inform it in the app and the cycle would be replaced. Interestingly, around 650 out of the 950 cycles are regularly hired like this.