00:00 After six decades of being an inseparable part of Mumbai's landscape, the iconic Premier
00:07 Padmini, affectionately known as Kali Peli Taxis, are preparing to bid farewell to the
00:14 city's bustling streets.
00:16 These black and yellow taxis weren't just a means of transportation, they were an enduring
00:22 symbol of Mumbai woven into the city's fabric.
00:27 An official from the Transport Department revealed that the last Premier Padmini was
00:32 registered as a black and yellow taxi on October 29, 2003.
00:38 These taxis, with their unmistakable charm, are now making way for newer models and app-based
00:44 cab services.
00:46 It is all set to be taken off the roads from October 30.
00:51 Abdul Kareem, who owns the last registered Premier Padmini taxi, expressed his deep attachment,
00:57 calling it "Mumbai ki shaan, the pride of Mumbai" and "Humari jaan, our life".
01:05 This development follows the retirement of the last double-decker buses of Mumbai's
01:10 public transporter.
01:11 It's a double blow for Mumbaikers as they bid farewell to two historic public carriers
01:17 within months.
01:20 Some voices in Mumbai are urging authorities to preserve at least one black and yellow
01:25 taxi on the road or in a museum as a testament to its iconic status.
01:32 The General Secretary of the Mumbai Taximen's Union recounted the history of Premier Padmini
01:38 from its debut in 1964, its later avatars as Premium President and Premier Padmini.
01:46 These taxis, manufactured by Premier Automobile Ltd. (PAL) retained the name throughout their
01:52 production until 2001.
01:54 Despite production ending, many Premier Padminis remained unregistered due to the scarcity
02:00 of spare parts.
02:02 In the 90s, Kali Pili taxis were at their peak, appreciated for their compact size,
02:09 reliable engines, easy maintenance and comfortable interiors.
02:14 These Kali Pili taxis also etched their place in Mumbai's cultural heritage, making appearances
02:20 in several Bollywood movies.
02:24 As we prepare to say goodbye to these iconic Kali Pili taxis, they leave behind a trial
02:30 of memories and a significant chapter in Mumbai's history.
02:40 [BLANK_AUDIO]
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