Fuel prices across the nation have increased consistently over the last few days and this has raised concerns for cab and auto drivers in the city. Considering the same, the taxi unions, on Monday, October 11, 2021, considered opting for electric cars which could be operated as cabs in Mumbai, as the price of diesel and CNG have been increasing regularly making it unaffordable for the drivers.
After several discussions, the fare for a taxi ride from Mumbai’s airports, both domestic and international, was revised and increased, however, authorities are now discussing the possibilities of using electric vehicles as the Kaali Peeli in Mumbai. Once approved, this will be a new introduction to the city’s public transport. Matters are being discussed as the black and yellow cabs in Mumbai run on CNG currently, the price of which was increased recently.
A report regarding the same was published in the Free Press Journal, which quoted the senior trade union and taxi union leader A L Quadros, who told the publication that support will be needed from the state government to receive subsidies to operate the same. Once it is finalized internally, the matter will be taken to the government.
Also Read: How Mumbai Is Becoming Environmentally Friendly
Meanwhile, several public transportation modes are being converted to electric, and it is believed that the same would be beneficial for a better environment. Officials believe that if this decision is implemented, the government will be able to expand the scope of promoting and using electric vehicles for public transportation in the city. Once approved, similar decision could be taken for auto rickshaws as well, once the outcome is analysed.
No proposals regarding the implementation have been received by the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), however, decision regarding subsidies will be taken by the government once the same is considered after union’s submission.
The government currently operates a fleet of electric buses and additional buses were launched recently which will operate from Mumbai airport on a point-to-point basis. BEST is also planning to lease a few more air-conditioned electric buses which will be added to the fleet in the next two years.
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