Kolkata’s Famous Yellow Taxis Make a Comeback as ‘Heritage Cabs’ with Exciting Upgrades
Revival of Iconic Yellow Taxis in Kolkata
The iconic yellow taxis of Kolkata have been an integral part of the city’s identity for many years. However, with time, the number of these iconic taxis has been dwindling. In an effort to revive and preserve this cultural heritage, the West Bengal government, in association with a private company, has launched a fleet of 20 modern cars.
Launch of Yellow Heritage Cabs
The fleet of modern hatchback cars, named ‘Yellow Heritage Cabs’, was flagged off by the state transport minister Snehasis Chakraborty. The launch event was attended by the transport secretary, Soumitra Mohan, and other officials. The initiative aims to evoke nostalgia and emotions surrounding the iconic yellow taxis that have been a familiar sight on the streets of Kolkata.
Modern Features and Design
The new yellow taxis will come equipped with modern features such as seat belts and airbags for passenger safety. They will run on a combination of CNG and petrol, making them environmentally friendly. Additionally, the cars will feature images of Kolkata’s iconic landmarks like the Victoria Memorial Hall and the Howrah Bridge on their bodies.
Booking through ‘Yatri Sathi’ App
To make it convenient for passengers to book these yellow taxis, the government has integrated them into the ‘Yatri Sathi’ app. This will enable commuters to easily hail a ride in one of these modern yellow cabs.
Phasing Out of Old Taxis
The launch of the new fleet comes in response to the Calcutta High Court’s order in 2009, which mandated the phasing out of commercial vehicles older than 15 years in the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) area. As a result, the number of metered yellow taxis on the roads has been decreasing, with less than 2,000 expected to remain by the end of 2025. By 2027-28, all old yellow taxis will cease operations.
Preserving Kolkata’s Heritage
The initiative to launch modern yellow taxis aims to preserve Kolkata’s heritage and cultural identity. By reviving the iconic yellow cabs with a contemporary twist, the government and private company are ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the charm and nostalgia associated with these iconic vehicles.