Kolkata's identity yellow taxi on the way of disappearing! what is the reason?
The yellow taxis were once the main mode of transport in Kolkata. At one time, long queues of yellow taxis were seen in Howrah and Sealdah. But now, these yellow taxis are on the verge of disappearing completely. According to a source, within a month, about 1,000 more taxis will be closed. Yellow taxis, once an important mode of transport in Kolkata, have now become a ride that refreshes old memories or a less preferred public transport service.
When did the journey of yellow taxis start?
The yellow Ambassador taxi started in the 1950s. Ambassador cars manufactured by Hindustan Motors were considered the most reliable vehicles of that era. Especially their strong structure and low maintenance cost made them ideal for taxis. About 7,000 Ambassador taxis used to run on the roads of Kolkata.
Why is the era of the yellow Ambassador taxi going to end?
The West Bengal Transport Department has fixed the age of vehicles at 15 years. Due to this rule, about 4,500 taxis, which is more than half of the total taxi number, will soon be out of service. It will now be illegal to drive these taxis.
Hindustan Motors' closure is a big blow
Hindustan Motors closed its factory in 2014. With this, the production of Ambassador cars also stopped. Due to no new Ambassador models being made, the existence of yellow taxis gradually ended.
Will the era of yellow taxis end completely?
However, some hopes are still left. It is reported that during the World Banga Trade Summit in February 2024, a new company may announce the launch of 2,000 new yellow taxis in Kolkata. These vehicles will be inspired by the design of the Ambassador and will try to keep the heritage of the city alive.
Existence of yellow taxis in danger in technological era
Online app cabs pose a threat to yellow taxis, which are struggling to survive in the technological age among their competitors. According to drivers, the lack of air conditioning is another disadvantage for yellow taxis. Apart from this, it does not have many of its modern facilities yet. The advent of online app cabs and the increase in fuel prices have crippled this class of transporters in Kolkata.
New initiative of yellow taxi in the digital age
Even in the digital era, yellow taxis kept themselves relevant. Taxi booking facility was provided through 'Yatri Sathi' app, which was very popular. Through this app, 60.98 lakh trips were booked in three years and taxi drivers earned Rs 166 crore.
Yellow taxi is not just a means of transport, but has been the identity of Kolkata. Now it is going to become a part of history. But the experiences and memories associated with it will always remain alive in every street of Kolkata. The departure of yellow taxis from the streets of Kolkata is the end of an era. But the hopes of a new beginning can revive this heritage.