Moving to Delhi: TransportationThe mass transit system in Delhi is very poor, consisting of very over-crowded old buses. On the other hand, it is very easy to get a taxi or "auto-rickshaw", both of which can be found at stands that dot the city. (An auto-rickshaw is a small three-wheeler.) Note on taxis: In Delhi, the taxi fare was not what is on the meter, but about one-and-three-quarters (175%) of the meter reading (as of early 1998). However, they've been installing new sealed meters, which should reflect the new rate of Rs. 2½ per kilometer plus Rs. 3.00 (e.g., 2 km would cost Rs. 8). All autorickshaws and taxis should be fitted out with the new meters by the end of July. It is expected that going the long way will become the preferred method of overcharging. You can rent cars, invariably with driver, very easily. Generally, your local taxi rank would be more than happy to provide one for the day. For longer rental or leasing, say for a month or two (with or without driver), you'd probably be better off starting with a travel agent. Several major car rental firms have offices in Delhi, as well. Many foreigners, especially diplomats, import cars. If you are considering that, you should also consider buying a car once you get here. The range of cars and of four-wheel-drive vehicles that are now available in Delhi has greatly increased in the past few years, both foreign (e.g., Fiat Uno, Ford Escort, Opel Astra, Peugeot 309) and domestic (e.g., Ambassador, Contessa). Indian-manufactured cars increasingly take advantage of technology transfers through joint ventures with foreign automobile manufacturers, and some of the 'foreign' cars are actually manufactured here. (BTW, there are a lot of white cars here. Four-wheel-drives, in particular, all seem to be painted white. So you might want to consider another color...) Another thing to consider is a driver: most foreigners hire a driver (at Indian pay scales, this is quite affordable; for example, many Indians who own cars will have a driver as well). In addition to cars, though, you can also get a wide variety of motorcycles: new (Honda, Suzuki, etc.) and of vintage motorcycles in India (either hand-restored antiques or a newly-manufactured classic: the Enfield Bullet, which is unchanged since 1955). For learning your way around, pick up a copy of the Eischer Guide -- a ring-bound, multicolored high-quality map of Delhi. Very detailed and easy to use, with an extensive index.
- Search Engines - Staff - Shopping - Travel - Transport - Communications - Copyright © 1998 Peter R Bullen. Created: 15-Feb-98. Updates: 30-April-98, 20-May-98, 5-Aug-98, 29-Nov-98. |