Govt considering introduction of Mega taxis

The state government is considering a proposal to introduce Mega taxi to reduce the pressure on auto rickshaws. The design of the proposed Mega taxi has been prepared and sent to Transport ministry for approval. 

The taxis will be maintained by CTC. The proposal is to introduce 100 mega taxis in the first batch. These vehicles can accommodate 10 to 15 people. The conductor will sit next to the driver. The vehicles are safer than autos. A survey conducted by the state transport department revealed that between Ultadanga and Sector V, 900 autos ply daily. Also, it is considering a proposal to introduce the Mega taxis in Dakshineshwar- Dunlop, Sealdah, Salt Lake, Sovabazar, Beliaghata and Chiria More areas. 

The Transport department is also engaged in route rationalisation. In many routes there is a sharp fall in the number of passengers because of metro connectivity. But in some places there is problem of getting transport and route rationalisation will help to bring these areas under transport network. Along with this, the transport department is giving emphasis on river transport. Many jetties have been repaired and renovated. The officials of transport department feel that communication network will improve once the Metro rail service starts functioning in full swing.