End of an Era for Mumbai’s ‘Kaali-Peeli’ Taxis
Mumbai’s beloved ‘Premier Padmini,’ affectionately known as ‘Kaali-Peeli’ taxis, will bid adieu to the city’s streets after a remarkable six-decade journey. This departure follows a change in the age limit for cabs operating in the city.
For many, ‘Kaali-Peeli’ taxis weren’t merely modes of transport; they embodied Mumbai’s spirit. These iconic cabs left an indelible mark on the city’s identity and culture.
From today, the iconic Premier Padmini Taxi vanishes from Mumbai’s roads. They were clunkers, uncomfortable, unreliable, noisy. Not much baggage capacity either. But for people of my vintage, they carried tons of memories. And they did their job of getting us from point A to… pic.twitter.com/weF33dMQQc
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) October 30, 2023
As the age limit for taxis in Mumbai is set at 20 years, the last Premier Padmini was registered on October 29, 2003. This marks the end of an era, with newer models and app-based cab services replacing these classic cabs.
Nostalgia in the City
Abdul Kareem Karsekar, owner of the last registered Premier Padmini taxi (MH-01-JA-2556), expressed his sentimental attachment to the iconic cab. These cabs are more than just vehicles; they are the pride and life of Mumbai.
The departure of ‘Kaali-Peeli’ taxis follows the recent retirement of double-decker buses from the public transporter BEST. Mumbai residents have witnessed the farewell of two cherished public carriers in a matter of weeks.
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Efforts to preserve at least one Premier Padmini on the road or in a museum, as suggested by the Mumbai Taximen’s Union, did not come to fruition. These vintage cabs may have disappeared from the streets, but they remain vivid in people’s hearts and imagination.
Premier Padmini’s Journey
Premier Padmini taxis became synonymous with Mumbai’s streets in 1964, starting with the model ‘Fiat-1100 Delight.’ Over the years, they underwent various transformations, but the name remained. In 2001, production ceased, and the number of Premier Padminis on the roads dwindled.
Changing Regulations and Popularity
As government regulations imposed age limits, Premier Padminis slowly left the streets. In 2008, a 25-year age limit was set for cabs, which was further reduced to 20 years in 2013. Despite their smaller size, these cabs were popular among drivers due to their reliable engines and easy maintenance.
‘Kaali-Peeli’ taxis also became cultural icons, featuring in numerous Bollywood movies. These classic cabs left an indelible mark on Mumbai’s identity, becoming synonymous with the city’s spirit.
Double-Decker Buses’ Farewell
This loss comes on the heels of the retirement of the iconic open-deck double-decker buses that graced Mumbai’s streets for over eight decades. These buses had been an integral part of the city’s charm and heritage.
The BEST administration gradually phased out double-decker buses, replacing them with battery-run alternatives. The cost-effectiveness of newer models prompted this transition, marking the end of an era in Mumbai’s public transport.
The Legacy Lives On
While these iconic cabs and double-decker buses have left the streets, they live on in the memories and imaginations of Mumbaikars. Their cultural significance and nostalgic value endure, reminding the city of its rich heritage.
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The departure of ‘Kaali-Peeli’ taxis and double-decker buses signifies a changing era in Mumbai’s transportation landscape, yet their legacy remains etched in the city’s heart and soul.
