WITHIN a fortnight, Delhi Government is gearing up to introduce 5000 radio taxis on the city’s roads. According to Delhi government’s Transport Ministry, complications with the proposal which was held up with the Airport Authority of India (AAI) have finally been cleared up.
Following the murder of Australian tourist Dawn Emilie Griggs this month, the proposal for bringing 5000 radio taxis is being seen as a safety measure for travellers. With the companies to be liable for their drivers, police verification and identification badges will be a must for every employee.
State Transport Authority Commissioner, Rajiv Talwar said: ‘‘Regular taxis can incorporate the wireless system into their vehicles and be part of the system. The fares for all these will remain the regular Rs 15 per km.’’
Presently, there are three radio taxi services — 1920, 1923 and 1929. Delhi Transport Minister Haroon Yusuf said: ‘‘Private radio taxis will be granted permission to ply on Delhi roads within a day or two. With reputed companies running these taxis, passenger safety will be stepped up.’’
At a recent meeting between the Radio Taxis Operations Association, AAI, State Transport Authority and Ministry officials, the AAI has also agreed to allot a counter and find parking space for over 20 radio taxis in front of the DTDC Coffee Home at the IGI Airport.
Airport Director P.S. Nair said: ‘‘The proposal is awaiting clearance from the commercial advisory board. Twenty taxis will be sufficient to cater to immediate demands while the rest can be accessed through the wireless system to arrive from wherever they are.’’