Kolkata’s iconic yellow taxis, fondly dubbed the “King of Indian Roads,” are nearing the end of an era as over half of the fleet is set to retire by the year’s close. Once synonymous with the city’s cultural charm, these Hindustan Ambassador taxis are now grappling with challenges that make their survival increasingly untenable.
Introduced in 1962 by the Calcutta Taxi Association, these taxis quickly became a hallmark of Kolkata’s streets, cherished for their classic design and robust build. Painted in vibrant yellow for visibility, they wove themselves into the city’s fabric, transporting countless passengers through iconic locations like Howrah Bridge and Esplanade. However, the winds of modernization have not been kind to these vintage vehicles.
The decline is driven by stringent government regulations that mandate the phasing out of commercial vehicles older than 15 years to combat diesel pollution. Rising maintenance costs, coupled with the unavailability of spare parts since the Ambassador’s production ceased in 2014, have left many operators struggling. Additionally, the rise of app-based services like Ola and Uber has drawn customers toward modern, fuel-efficient cars with added conveniences such as air conditioning and GPS tracking.
Once a fleet of 18,000, only 6,000 yellow taxis remain, a number expected to drop further. The pandemic exacerbated the situation, forcing many drivers to sell their vehicles or switch professions during lockdowns. Efforts by the West Bengal government, such as the Yatri Sathi app to streamline services, have not achieved the desired impact.
Despite their decline, yellow taxis continue to evoke nostalgia. For many, they symbolize Kolkata’s resilience and timeless charm, immortalized in literature, films, and personal memories. While their presence fades, initiatives like heritage tours and exhibitions aim to preserve their legacy.
As Kolkata transitions into a modern metropolis, the loss of its yellow taxis represents both progress and the quiet fading of a cherished tradition. The city may look different, but the stories carried by these yellow cabs will remain an indelible part of Kolkata’s soul.
