Kolkata Yellow Taxis Green Makeover: Kolkata’s iconic yellow taxis are going green! On April 29, 2025, the city introduced 30 dual-fuel cabs running on CNG and battery power—blending heritage with sustainability. Discover how this green makeover is reshaping Kolkata’s transport future.
Kolkata’s iconic yellow taxis, long celebrated as a vibrant symbol of the city’s culture and identity, are now stepping into a new era. In a significant leap towards sustainable urban transportation, 30 new dual-fuel cabs were officially launched on April 29, 2025. These modernized taxis maintain the traditional yellow exterior but are now powered by a combination of compressed natural gas (CNG) and battery technology—marking a crucial transition away from the city’s heavy dependence on diesel-powered vehicles.
Kolkata Yellow Taxis Green Makeover: A Blend of Heritage and Sustainability
For decades, the bright yellow Ambassador taxis have been as synonymous with Kolkata as its trams, Howrah Bridge, and street food culture. While the vintage Ambassadors are largely phased out, their essence continues in newer models still painted in the city’s trademark yellow. This recent update to dual-fuel technology is not just about replacing old engines—it represents a blend of nostalgia and innovation, an effort to preserve Kolkata’s cultural icon while embracing a cleaner, greener future.
According to city officials, this initiative is part of a broader strategy to combat rising air pollution levels in Kolkata, which frequently ranks among the most polluted cities in India. The adoption of CNG and battery-powered vehicles is expected to drastically cut carbon emissions from public transport, particularly from older diesel engines that are known for high particulate pollution.
Why Dual-Fuel Technology?
The newly introduced yellow taxis operate on a hybrid dual-fuel system: compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric battery. This model provides flexibility and improved efficiency. When CNG is not readily available, the battery can take over and vice versa, ensuring continuous operation without compromising on eco-friendliness.
CNG, already a popular alternative fuel across various Indian cities, produces significantly lower emissions compared to diesel. Coupled with battery power—sourced from renewable grids wherever possible—these dual-fuel cabs are expected to deliver better mileage, lower operational costs, and drastically reduced emissions.
Government Backing and Policy Push
The rollout of these 30 cabs is part of a pilot initiative supported by the West Bengal government in collaboration with local transport authorities and private taxi operators. Officials have indicated that if the project proves successful in terms of performance, maintenance, and environmental impact, the city could see the conversion or replacement of hundreds more yellow taxis in the coming months.
“We are preserving a legacy while preparing for the future,” said a senior transport department official during the launch event held at the Esplanade depot. “The yellow taxi is an inseparable part of Kolkata’s urban identity. With this dual-fuel adaptation, we are ensuring that they remain relevant and responsible in the era of climate consciousness.”
Financial and Technical Support for Taxi Owners
Recognizing the financial challenges faced by individual taxi owners and small operators, the government is reportedly considering subsidy schemes and low-interest loans to support the purchase of dual-fuel vehicles or retrofit kits. Additionally, maintenance support, training programs for drivers, and increased access to CNG refueling stations are being planned to ensure a smooth transition.
One of the early adopters, taxi driver Pranab Das, expressed optimism. “At first I was unsure, but now I see the benefit,” he said. “The fuel cost is lower, and the ride is smoother. Plus, passengers like the idea of a cleaner ride.”
Public Reaction and Passenger Experience
Initial passenger feedback has been positive, with many lauding the initiative for addressing environmental concerns without losing the charm of the city’s most beloved mode of transport. Some riders have even reported quieter engines and less exhaust odor, enhancing the overall travel experience.
“Riding in a yellow taxi still feels special, but now it also feels like I’m doing something good for the environment,” said college student Ananya Mukherjee after her first ride in one of the new green cabs.
Future Plans and Challenges Ahead
While the introduction of 30 dual-fuel taxis is a promising start, experts caution that this is only a small fraction of the city’s fleet. Kolkata has thousands of yellow taxis still running on diesel, many of which are old and poorly maintained. Scaling up the program will require concerted efforts in funding, infrastructure development—especially charging stations—and policy enforcement.
Environmental groups have welcomed the initiative but urge for faster implementation. “This is a step in the right direction,” said Ranjan Dutta, an air quality researcher. “But given the urgency of Kolkata’s pollution crisis, we need hundreds, not dozens, of such eco-friendly vehicles on the road.”
The city is also exploring integration with app-based taxi services and real-time pollution tracking systems in these new vehicles. This would allow for data collection and help measure the tangible environmental impact of this shift over time.
Conclusion
Kolkata’s effort to modernize its beloved yellow taxis with dual-fuel technology is more than just a cosmetic update—it’s a symbolic and strategic move toward greener transportation. By preserving tradition while embracing innovation, the city sets an example for other heritage-rich urban centers facing similar environmental challenges.
As the yellow cabs take on a green mission, Kolkata drives into a cleaner, more sustainable future—one iconic taxi at a time.
Do Follow
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FAME India Scheme – Ministry of Heavy Industries
Link: https://heavyindustries.gov.in/UserView/index?mid=2487
🔗 Use anchor text: FAME India Scheme for electric and hybrid vehicles -
Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) – CNG Infrastructure in India
Link: https://www.pngrb.gov.in/
🔗 Use anchor text: CNG station infrastructure in India -
West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB)
Link: https://www.wbpcb.gov.in/
🔗 Use anchor text: air quality improvement initiatives by WBPCB -
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) – Vehicle Emission Norms
Link: https://morth.nic.in/
🔗 Use anchor text: vehicular emission standards in India -
International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) – India Studies
Link: https://theicct.org/india/
🔗 Use anchor text: clean transportation research in India -
Tata Motors – Green Mobility Solutions (if taxis are Tata vehicles)
Link: https://www.tatamotors.com/innovation/green-mobility/
🔗 Use anchor text: green mobility solutions by Tata Motors
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