Shillong: Out of the 20 electric bicycles introduced by the Meghalaya Government under the ‘Ride Shillong’ Public Bicycle Sharing System (PBSS), at least 13 are presently non-functional and have been left parked at a lot opposite the State Bank of India (SBI) Main Branch in Shillong, raising concerns over maintenance and utilisation of public assets.
The PBSS initiative was launched in September 2025 by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma along with fitness icon Milind Soman as part of efforts to promote sustainable urban mobility and healthy lifestyles. The project introduced 20 pedal-assisted electric bicycles designed to make cycling easier in hilly terrain and accessible to people of all age groups.
The initiative is supported by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, in collaboration with GIZ India under the Sustainable Urban Mobility project. It aims to transform Shillong into a more walkable and cycle-friendly city with cleaner air and reduced traffic congestion.
The PBSS is also a key component of the Shillong Urban Mobility Policy 2024, which targets achieving 35% non-motorised and public transport-based mobility in the city.
However, with a majority of the e-bicycles now lying unused and damaged, many citizens have begun questioning the effectiveness of the programme. Critics allege poor planning and lack of regular maintenance, while others have accused the government of wasting public money.
Officials are yet to issue a detailed clarification on why most of the bicycles are defunct or when they will be restored.
