E-cycle initiative in Bengaluru’s Lalbagh to be extended after overwhelming response for pilot project

As many as 1,660 people have taken rides on the e-cycles/scooters provided by the Horticulture Department to explore the Lalbagh Botanical Garden. The initiative, which was announced on June 5, on the occasion of World Environment Day, was launched on June 12.

The department had initially procured 15 e-cycles from an organisation called Fetch Mobility. In the first month, between June 12 and 30, a total of 682 visitors took the ride, while in July (from 1 to 28), it rose to 978, indicating an increase in interest. The cycles that run on electric batteries are eco-friendly with zero emissions.

“We have received an overwhelming response to the pilot project, and after the first two months, we have decided to extend it further. We will be procuring 15 more bikes shortly,” said M. Jagadeesh, Joint Director, Parks and Gardens, Horticulture Department.

Currently, visitors can take a 20-minute ride for ₹50, and the cycles are available near the Double Road Gate, near Siddapura Circle. The department is now planning to provide cycles near the Main Gate and eventually near the West Gate too. Along with the cycles, riders are also given helmets and knee braces.

The project was initiated after observing the success of similar initiatives in countries like Holland, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The department plans to eventually introduce the cycles in Cubbon Park too.

“E-bikes have been introduced in Lalbagh to provide greater mobility to people. Lovely way to see plants, trees and enjoy the good weather,” a social media user recently shared on X.

50 trees QR-coded

Another programme, where 50 select trees would be equipped with QR codes to provide detailed information, was also announced on June 5. The officials of the Horticulture Department said that the QR coding of all 50 trees have been completed.

These codes will provide information about the origin, migration, common name, scientific name, and uses of the trees. “It is a time-intensive job, and we have installed it on 50 trees. Taxonomical officers are on the job, and the codes will eventually be installed on all trees in Lalbagh,” Mr. Jagadeesh said.