Kerala’s taxi industry is not just a mode of transport; it is a captivating saga that
mirrors the state’s evolution. From the exclusive days of the ‘Mono Colour Taxi Cars’
to the vibrant, accessible service of today, it’s a story of growth, change, and
unwavering spirit.
Imagine Kerala in 1965. Taxis were a luxury, not a commute. With permits as rare
as gold, only a fortunate few could offer rides to the state’s burgeoning tourist
industry. Ensign Taxis, a trailblazer, secured one of these golden tickets, and their
Ambassador car (KLA 420) became a legendary sight.
Fast forward to a time when rules began to loosen. All India Permits and South
Zone Tourist Permits opened doors for many more. These permits were a gamechanger. With All India Permits, taxi operators could traverse the entire country,
carrying tourists from beaches 0f Kerala to the mountains of the North. The South
Zone Permits, while more restricted, offered a significant advantage: freedom from
the rigid regulations that once defined the industry.
Travancore and Cochin were erstwhile princely states of India, governed by their
respective royal families until 1949. The administrators of these states were known
as Diwans. Notably, Sir R.K. Shanmukham Chetty, who later served as the first
Finance Minister in Nehru’s cabinet, was the Diwan of Cochin for a significant
period.
I assumed the mantle of ownership of Ensign Taxis following my father’s demise.
The taxi industry has undergone a transformative evolution in the past six
decades, with a significant relaxation of tourist permit regulations leading to
increased competition.
My father, Late T. Sankunny Nair, held the esteemed position of State Car Driver
for the final six Diwans of Cochin: P.S. Narayana Iyer, C.G. Herbert, R.K.
Shanmukham Chetty, A.F.W.Dixon , G.T. Boag, and C.P. Karunakara Menon.
Upon his retirement in 1951, he utilized his superannuation benefits to acquire a
1939 model American car, an Oldsmobile. This vehicle marked the inception of
Ensign Taxis, operating as a taxi within Cochin State. Subsequently, in 1954, after
several changes a 1948 model Dodge (Fluid Drive) was introduced, solidifying the
establishment of Ensign Taxis. Sadly, he passed away in 1961.
Between 1965 and 1980, Cochin underwent a remarkable transformation,
emerging as a bustling industrial hub. Under the visionary leadership of Sir C.P.
Ramaswamy Iyer, the then Diwan of Travancore, key industries like Indian
Aluminium Company Ltd, FACT and the Glass Factory took root, marking the
beginning of a golden era.
This period witnessed an influx of industrial giants, including Cominco Binani Zinc
Ltd, Metal Box Company of India Ltd, Apollo Tyres, Traco Cable Company, Cochin
Refineßries at Irumpanam and Hindustan Newsprint at Piravom and many more. These
companies not only fueled economic growth but also solidified Cochin’s reputation
as a manufacturing powerhouse.
As an industrial photographer groomed by Kerala State Productivity Council, I was
fortunate to witness this transformation firsthand. The technical teams who
collaborated with these Companies from across the globe, stationed in Cochin,
often sought our taxi services for daily official commute and to explore Kerala’s
scenic beauty during the weekends.
The arrival of their foreign dignitaries demanded a touch of local grandeur. They
were welcomed with the rhythmic beats of Chenda Melam and the majestic
presence of elephants. Ensign Taxis were engaged for the above visits
Ensign Taxis was also entrusted with the critical task of delivering photographs
from Cochin Airport, ensuring they reached the presses of Malayala Manorama in
Kozhikode and Kottayam on time so that they could be included in their editions.
These images arrived on various flights from Trivandrum. In an era devoid of
modern communication, this was a challenge we embraced with dedication.
Despite these industry shifts, Ensign Taxis has steadfastly persevered. I am
profoundly grateful for this journey and express sincere appreciation for the
unwavering support of our customers and loyalty of our employees that has
sustained us thus far. We hope to continue this journey successfully.
P S Sukumaran
24th July, 2024
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