Chennai Metro update: CMRL introduces Electric Bikes at Thirumangalam, Vadapalani and Alandur Metro stations

As part of providing several multi-modal integration facilities to passengers, Chennai Metro Rail Limited in association with Howdy Hire Bikes, a two wheeler rental start-up have launched a fleet of electric two wheelers at Thirumangalam, Vadapalani and Alandur Metro Stations.

  • Howdy electric two wheelers can be utilised by passengers using their “Howdy Hire Bikes” Mobile App and select their pick up hub and drop hub to reserve a scooter. 
  • Once done, passengers can scan the QR code of the bike to lock/unlock/start/pause ride from the mobile application itself. 
  • Once the ride is completed, the passenger can drop it at any hub close to their destination. 
  • The hub will be available at every 500 meters within Chennai.
  • The charges are Rs.3 per kilometre and 10 paise per minute. 
  • The first ride is absolutely free with a 50% discount on the next 5 rides.
  • These bikes are provided with a double layer protection for the safety of passengers:
    • They are coated with a certified “Anti – Microbial” solution that provides protection against Droplet Based virus.
    • The bikes and helmets are sanitized after each and every ride.
  • Based on the response from public, this facility will be made available at more Chennai Metro Stations.

Recent Progress:

  • As part of Multi modal integration initiatives, the old Anna subway near the Chennai Metro Rail’s Government Estate Underground Metro Station was renovated and opened recently for the benefit of public and passengers. 
  • The old Anna subway which is one of the biggest subways in Chennai is located beneath Arignar Anna Statue. 
  • The subway now has been renovated to blend with the aesthetics of the surrounding Metro entry structures with ACP cladding, Granite flooring, Wall tiling, New lighting and Designer GFRC Jalli works. 
  • The subway has direct connectivity to the Government Estate Underground Metro Station Concourse Level and provides convenient access to the station for the benefit of public and passengers from Wallajah road, Ellis road, Blacker’s Road and Anna Salai. 
  • The subway also connects to the iconic Khadi Bhavan and Tamil Nadu Government Multi Super Specialty Hospital at Omandurar Government Estate. 
  • Adequate signages have also been installed at the entries and inside the subway to guide passengers to the Metro Station.
  • Under Unlock-4, operations of Chennai Metro services began with effect from 08:00 am on 7th September 2020 in a graded manner. 
  • Chennai Metro Rail services were suspended w.e.f from 22nd March 2020, in view of the lockdown imposed due to Covid-19 pandemic. 

Source: CMRL-Press Release