Kolkata’s Iconic Yellow Taxis to Disappear as 4,500 Cabs are Phased Out
Kolkata’s iconic yellow metered taxis, particularly the Ambassador model, will soon fade from the streets, with nearly 4,500 taxis set to be removed in 2024 for exceeding the 15-year service limit. This decision follows a 2008 ruling by the Calcutta High Court, which mandates that no commercial vehicle over 15 years old can operate in the city.
At the beginning of 2024, approximately 7,000 yellow metered taxis were still in service, but 64% of these—around 4,493 cabs—will be taken off the road. Additionally, around 2,500 older D and E-series Ambassadors will be phased out throughout the year. By 2025, the number of yellow taxis in Kolkata will fall below 3,000.
The rise of app-based ride services in 2015, coupled with the phased-out Ambassadors and the financial strain of rising vehicle costs, has already caused the popularity of these taxis to dwindle. Prior to the pandemic, there were around 18,000 yellow taxis operating in Kolkata. Many cab drivers have left the business due to the high costs of new BS VI-compliant taxis, priced over Rs 8 lakh, and the lack of fare revisions.
Kolkata’s taxi industry has a rich legacy, with yellow taxis introduced in 1962 and known for their reliability and unique appearance. However, the future of this once beloved mode of transportation is now uncertain.
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