In Kochi Metro, commuters can carry their bicycles; public health is the motive
Initially, the Kochi Metro initially permit entry of cycles from 6 stations including Changampuzha Park, Palarivattom, Town Hall, Ernakulam South, Maharaja's College, and Elamkulam metro stations.
New Delhi: In one of the rare decisions, the Kochi Metro has allowed commuters to carry their bicycles inside the Metro for free, officials said.
The decision was taken in wake of rise in usage of cycles across the city.
Initially, the Kochi Metro initially permit entry of cycles from 6 stations including Changampuzha Park, Palarivattom, Town Hall, Ernakulam South, Maharaja’s College, and Elamkulam metro stations.
If the project looks fruitful with passengers showing good turnout, the service will be extended to all stations.
“We have permitted cycles inside the metro to promote end-to-end connectivity with non-motorised mode of transport and also to encourage a healthy lifestyle. People are aware of the importance of fitness and exercise. This will encourage people to use cycles for their daily commute,” said Additional Chief Secretary Alkesh Kumar Sharma, MD, Kochi Metro.
The cyclists can use elevators at the station. The staff will facilitate the entry to the trains. The commuters can keep their cycles at both ends of the train.
Other passenger friendly services like feeder buses have already been pressed into service. The shuttle services are available from Kalamassery metro station at 9:30 am to Kakkanad at 5 pm.