The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur, has come up with the fourth-generation Public Bicycle Sharing System (PUBBS) and it is equipped with a cutting-edge smart electro-mechanical IoT module for bicycle locking abreast of a dedicated software.

The innovative system has been completely developed in India and it integrates hardware, software as well as firmware to facilitate a fully automatic bicycle lock and a cloud-based sharing platform. The system is currently made accessible only through subscription and it aims to revolutionize public bicycle sharing for a more convenient and hassle-free use.

PUBBS is equipped with a user-friendly setup and better compared to other similar systems. No specialized equipment or personnel is required to make use of it.

The key features of PUBBS include a GSM/GPRS/GPS manual lock with GPS location tracking, theft detection capabilities with GPS, an energy-efficient hardware design and enhanced battery life. Moreover, it boasts efficient locking and the unlocking mechanisms are facilitated by a robotic hardware driver.

Professor VK Tiwari said PUBBS represents the first Make in India smart lock for bicycle/e-bike sharing systems. They have currently manufactured the initial batch of smart locks and these are Bluetooth-based. Initially, it is planned to offer for free, but later a nominal fee will be implemented.

The initiative aligns with India’s focus on promoting indigenous innovation and sustainable transportation solutions. With advanced technology and local expertise, it aims to enhance accessibility to eco-friendly transportation options while addressing urban mobility challenges.

PUBBS signifies a significant milestone in India’s journey towards developing smart as well as sustainable urban infrastructure.