THE HINDU

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has introduced a novel facility for commuters — bike rentals from metro stations. Passengers can now hop off the train and hire a Harley-Davidson, Royal Enfield, or scooter for their last-mile connectivity, all within minutes of stepping out of the station.

The initiative, which was launched in collaboration with private rental companies, aims to make daily commutes faster and more convenient. Riders can choose from various two-wheelers, with rental rates starting from as low as ₹20 for short trips.

According to CMRL officials, the service is currently available at select metro stations including Alandur, Vadapalani, and Koyambedu, with plans to expand across the city in the coming months. The facility is designed for both daily commuters and tourists who want a quick and flexible way to get around Chennai.

Bike rental operators say demand has been encouraging, especially among office-goers who appreciate the flexibility of renting a vehicle for just a few hours instead of an entire day. Many are using the service to avoid traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

With this initiative, Chennai joins other Indian cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad, where bike rentals are already a popular mode of urban transport. CMRL hopes the scheme will help reduce dependence on personal vehicles and encourage more people to use public transportation.