Exciting news for Kolkata's iconic yellow taxi enthusiasts! The yellow cabs, a staple of the city’s charm, are back on the streets in a new avatar — the "Yellow Heritage Cabs." In a move to preserve the fading legacy of these beloved vehicles, the West Bengal government has partnered with a private firm to introduce a fleet of 20 modernized and refurbished Yellow Heritage Cabs.

What Are Yellow Heritage Cabs?

The launch of these updated taxis took place on Friday, led by the state’s transport minister, Snehasis Chakraborty. Designed to evoke nostalgia, the Yellow Heritage Cabs aim to preserve the iconic look and feel of the classic yellow taxis, which have long been an integral part of Kolkata's identity. In the coming months, an additional 3000 of these taxis are expected to hit the roads, revitalizing the city's transportation scene.

Modern Features with a Heritage Touch

These revamped yellow taxis are equipped with modern amenities such as seat belts, airbags, and are available in both CNG and petrol variants, providing an eco-friendly alternative. Each cab also celebrates Kolkata’s rich heritage, featuring images of the city’s famous landmarks, such as Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge, on the exteriors.

How to Book the Yellow Heritage Cabs?

You can easily book a ride through the state’s "Yatri Sathi" app, bringing this nostalgic yet modernized experience to your fingertips.

Why Were the Classic Yellow Taxis Discontinued?

This initiative comes as a response to a 2009 Calcutta High Court ruling that mandated the phasing out of commercial vehicles older than 15 years operating in the Kolkata and Howrah areas under the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA). Due to this ruling, the once-vibrant fleet of yellow taxis has significantly dwindled, with fewer than 2,000 expected to remain on the road by the end of 2025 — a sharp drop from 20,000 just three years ago.

The Yellow Heritage Cabs are a step toward preserving Kolkata’s iconic yellow taxis while adapting them to meet modern transportation needs. By 2027-28, it is expected that all older yellow taxis will permanently vanish from Kolkata’s streets, making these new additions an even more significant part of the city’s future.