Bikes for public use introduced in Zagreb

Zagreb, Croatia's capital, has taken a significant step towards promoting a greener and more sustainable city by introducing a public bike system named Bajs. The total contract value for this initiative is estimated at EUR 9.3 million, with the city planning to co-finance it from the city budget.

The Bajs public bike system is designed to help reduce traffic congestion, greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and noise. By making cycling a more convenient option, the city aims to encourage citizens to opt for a healthier and environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

The system, which is available 24/7, has initially made 500 bicycles available at 40 stations across the city. By the end of October, this number is set to increase, with 2,000 bikes being installed at 180 locations, and potential for an additional 1,000 bikes in the future.

The bike stations are strategically located along public transportation lines, near schools, sports facilities, and densely populated neighborhoods, making them easily accessible for a wide range of users.

The monthly fare for Bajs is EUR 5, and the annual fee is EUR 30. Rides of up to half an hour cost EUR 0.50.

The contract for the Bajs service includes the development and maintenance of a user app, operator and monitoring systems, as well as maintenance. The service provider for Bajs was not specified in the article.

However, it was announced that the company Jump, owned by Uber, has committed to taking over the public bike system "Bajk" in Zagreb. It remains to be seen how this partnership will shape the future of the Bajs system.

The city plans to assess the system during its first year of implementation and possibly expand it according to citizens' needs. This approach demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the system is tailored to the needs of the city and its residents.

Zagreb Mayor Tomislav Tomašević, along with deputies Danijel Dolenec and Luka Korlaet, launched the public bike system. Their hope is that the introduction of Bajs will contribute to a decrease in car usage in Zagreb, paving the way for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable city.

A map of the 180 bike stations can be found on the website bajs.zagreb.hr and a mobile app, making it easy for residents and visitors to navigate the city by bike.