Jobike: The short distance solution

Jobike is an app-based bike hiring service which was first introduced in China. As it was very popular and a great solution to traffic congestion, Md. Mehedi Reza, Founder and President of Jobike, planned to bring it to Bangladesh to help alleviate the traffic congestion problem.

At first, it was launched in the tourist hub of Cox's Bazar in June, 2018. Soon it was launched in Jahangirnagar University and after that in Mohakhali DOHS. Jobike will soon cover all the cities of the country and then spread to the suburbs and rural parts.

According to Jobike's official website, in order to take the service, intending users are to install the app from Google Play Store to his or her smartphone or other devices. Then they have to register with their mobile numbers. After completing registration process, users have to locate Jobike and scan the QR code which is printed on the body of the bike. After taking the service, users have to lock it through the app.

As for fare, initially Jobike is charging Tk 1 per minute after taking it and users have to recharge the bike before using it.

If Jobike can continue its service with customer satisfaction and without any problems, then hopefully this will be a sustainable solution for traffic congestion in the country.

Rakib Hossain

East West University

[email protected]