What are the first few historical representations that come to your mind when you think about Kolkata? For me, the list includes Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, yellow taxis, and phuchka among others. From North to South Kolkata, you will find yellow metered taxis running on the streets. Unlike online booking of swanky air-conditioned private cabs, commuters can easily hop on one after talking to the driver. Sadly, thousands of these cars will soon be removed from the streets.
Almost 4,500 Yellow Taxis Will Stop Running In Kolkata
A huge number of yellow-metered taxis will soon be taken off from the City of Joy’s streets. The news comes as a major shock to many as more than half of the present taxi fleet will be removed from the roads. Out of 7,000, Kolkata will witness nearly 4,500 vehicles concluding its regular services.
The decision has been made as these cars have exceeded the service limit of 15 years, according to a report by The Times of India. Once in action, the removal of a huge fleet of yellow taxis will change the transport landscape in Kolkata, especially in bustling areas.
Our lifestyles have transitioned significantly over the years. Today, many commuters prefer paying extra and booking private service-based cabs via mobile apps instead of travelling on these old yellow Ambassadors. Even before Ola, Uber, and similar companies started their services in the City of Joy, the immense popularity of yellow taxis began declining.
In the initial days of 2024, Kolkata had a fleet of about 7,000 yellow taxis. The state department stated that about 64 per cent of these ageing cars would exceed the 15-year service limit. Therefore, 4,493 cars will soon be stopped from continuing their regular operations.
Reason Behind The Decision
Back in 2008, a ruling by the Calcutta High Court stated that commercial vehicles of more than 15 years could not run in the City of Joy. After reaching the 15-year limit, its fitness certificate or permit cannot be renewed.
A study published in 2020 mentioned Kolkata having 18,000 operational yellow taxis. Now, about 2,500 older D and E-series Ambassadors will stop plying throughout the next year. Unfortunately, the number will drop to less than 3,000 by 2025.
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What are your thoughts on this decision?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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