Bike taxis to boost last-mile connectivity in Rajarhat & New Town

In a bid to improve last mile connectivity in New Town and Rajarhat, the West Bengal Transport Department on Thursday introduced bike taxis. The State Transport Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, flagged off 21 bike taxis which were introduced in the first phase of the project. In total, 50 such bikes named K Bike Taxis will be rolled out next month. 10 of these taxis will be operated by women who at present are undergoing training. This new mode of transport has been introduced by Kalim Global Commercial Motor Pvt Ltd.

Adhikari said, "This unique idea has been mooted to provide last minute connectivity. This initiative will result in providing better road connectivity to the citizens. Also, it's on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's list to fulfil the dream of Biswa Bangla."

He also stated that both New Town and Rajarhat would soon emerge as a green city. "After considering traffic issues, we would look into the potential of introducing the same in other towns and cities," he added.

During the inauguration, Adhikari congratulated both Debashis Sen, Chairman Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO), for coming up with the idea of bike taxis and transport secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay for executing the project by making necessary changes in the provision to allow commercial use of two-wheelers. While speaking on the safety and security of passengers, Adhikari said, "All security aspects have been checked. Also, these bike taxis would have a panic button. The fares will be regulated by the transport department."

He also stated that the transport department plans to roll out other steps to ensure better connectivity in the state including having air-conditioned mini buses in the city.

Bike taxis are common in overseas tourist spots and are used to ferry visitors from airports to hotels and resorts. "We are looking at possibilities of introducing bike taxis in tourist spots in Bengal," he added.