Ningbo to start free public bicycle system
- Details
- Category: Ningbo News
- Published: Tuesday, 24 September 2013 14:46
Ningbo will start its first free public bicycle service system which allows residents to borrow a bicycle at 32 service places via a bicycle-borrow card from September 22. A total of 800 bicycles will be put into trial operation.
Local authority said these public bicycles can be rented at any service places and returned to any other places in the network area. Users can ride for free within limited time period and have to be responsible for any damage or loss until the bike is returned. The public bicycle system aims to ease the city's increasing traffic jams and provide an efficient and green solution for commuters. The current 32 rental places are mainly stationed in Haishu, Jiangbei, and Jiangdong Districts. "We plan to open 50 to 60 places rental places every ten days. About 1,500 bicycles will be stationed each time." said an official of local traffic department.
A staff member in a service place in Haishu District demonstrated how to rent and return a bicycle. To check out a bike, the user should first swipe the IC card in the meter until hearing the voice alert as "Please pick up your bicycle", then the lock opens and the bike is available. "Your IC card will automatically record the time you rent your bike," the staff member said. He also demonstrates the process of returning. To return a bicycle, the user pushes the bike into the lock until hearing the voice alert. Then swipe the card again.
Twenty-five public bicycles will be put into use in this service place. "With aluminum alloy frames and waterproof seats, the public bicycles are a good fit for local city riders," added the staff member.
A kiosk is also stationed in each public bicycle service site. The users can check information like rental locations, terminal services, and self service instructions. Besides, these kiosks will also provide real-time traffic information and a guide to rental and return process.
