In a heartfelt stride toward a healthier Meghalaya, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma took to the streets of Shillong today, personally pedaling an electric bicycle to launch the city’s first Public Bicycle Sharing System (PBSS). This landmark initiative marks a crucial step in transforming Shillong into a truly walkable and cyclable city—where clean air, accessible mobility, and healthier lifestyles become a reality for all.
Joined by fitness legend Milind Soman, the Chief Minister’s ride symbolized a call to action for residents to embrace Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) and join the movement toward a greener, fitter Shillong.
“Shillong Urban Mobility Policy (2024) aims for 35% Non-Motorised Transport and today, we are pedaling towards a greener and healthier future,” Sangma said. “Let’s make Shillong a walking and cycling city!”
On the PBSS concept, he noted, “People will just rent it and use it… even in uphill you don’t have to paddle so much… anybody of any age can actually use this.” He added, “We are trying to minimise usage of motor vehicles… very soon we are coming up with a policy of electric taxi… Shillong is definitely a walkable city… this is one step towards that.”
Urban Affairs Commissioner and Secretary Dr Vijay Kumar D said, “Aiming to make Shillong the Non Motorised Transport capital of India, we started a program called reimagining streets… We are redesigning public spaces, relocating hawkers, and creating better hawking markets.” He added, “New Shillong is where we really want to take NMT to the next level… with very wide footpaths, cycling tracks, and a whole host of infrastructure.”
Calling it “a great vision,” Milind Soman said, “Shillong is a beautiful place but like most cities, it is heading towards congestion… If you make this a reality, every city in the country will be looking at Shillong.”
The PBSS launch reflects Meghalaya’s push to cut vehicle dependence, promote sustainable mobility, and position Shillong as a model for liveable cities across India.
