Tram in Kolkata is not just a means of transportation but it is a sense of heritage which lives with its people. It miraculously represents present, past, and future simultaneously.
The city of Kolkata, earlier known as Callicut has been witnessing the immemorial history of Tram for decades. Among the many things that have stood the test of time in this bustling city, the most prestigious and beloved is the tram service. Although the recent news of the discontinuation of the Tram service has disheartened people. As a spokesperson of the government of West Bengal, transportation minister Snehasis Chakraborty announced that tram services would soon be discontinued. However, a decision has been made to continue heritage tram service from Maidan to Esplanade. Recently he celebrated 150th anniversary.
Some lesser known facts about Kolkata’s famous tram service
Having witnessed the journey of tram services from British Calcutta to modern Kolkata, it is evident that this product has endured. Despite competition from other modes of transport, it continues to thrive and contribute to the city’s identity.
Tram service was inaugurated by British colonial government in the year 1873, with the aim of connecting various parts of the city with a modern means of commutation. The first tram service started between Sealdah and Armenian Ghat Street and covered a distance of 2.4km on a single track. But soon it was romanticized by the mass at large
In the past few years, the web of tram services spread across major parts in Kolkata and became a part of people’s everyday life. In the first decade of the 20th century, several tracks of the tram service covered up to 36 kilometers. Usage of the tram was not limited to its passengers, but it was a loved mode of transportation during holidays to roam around and enjoy the captivating views of the beautiful city.
Tram played an important role during the Indian Independence movement. When Gandhiji and and other freedom fighters started boycotting British-produced goods, trams along with other British produces were boycotted. As a result of which people hesitated to use the tram service, and their business affairs were badly affected. Although, after independence in 1947, it once again regained popularity and became an important means of public transport.
After the development of the city and urbanization, busses and metro rail have been included in the system. Because of which the usage of tram has considerably gone down, at times up to a minimum distance of 17 kilometers. Many people thought the tram service would soon be a thing of the past and disappear from the city.
In 1993, the Calcutta Tramways Company was established to modernize and upgrade the tram system. Old trams were replaced with new ones, and the tracks were improved, resulting in a smoother and faster journey.
The modernization of the tram service has rejuvenated its popularity among Kolkata’s residents. It has not only remained a crucial mode of transport but has also become a symbol of the city’s cultural identity. The bright yellow and green trams gliding through Kolkata’s bustling streets have made them synonymous with the city’s character.
In 2011, the first air-conditioned tram was introduced, providing much-needed relief to passengers during the scorching summer months. Another innovation adopted by the CTC was the launch of a mobile application that provides relevant information on tram routes, timetables, and fares. Fares remain affordable, starting from as low as 5 to 10 rupees.
