In Kolkata, the era of trams, a nostalgic echo of a bygone era, is drawing to a close, as necessity dictates the future of the city's transportation. The West Bengal government is planning to discontinue most of the 152-year-old tram network, preserving only a short "heritage route". This decision marks a significant shift in Kolkata's transportation landscape, as the iconic tram system, the oldest operating electric tram in Asia, gradually fades into history.
Introduced in 1873, Kolkata's trams began as horse-drawn carriages, evolving into an integral part of the city's identity. They offered a unique, eco-friendly, and leisurely mode of transport, witnessing Kolkata's evolution through colonial rule, independence, and modern urbanization. At its peak, the tram network connected major districts and neighborhoods, with over 340 trams running across the city. In 1902, Kolkata became the first Asian city with an electric tramway. The network expanded rapidly, and by 1943, it spanned approximately 68 km, connecting Kolkata and Howrah.
However, in recent years, the tram system has faced increasing pressure from modern transport infrastructure projects, like the expanding metro network and flyovers. With increasing traffic congestion, slow speeds, and aging infrastructure, the trams have experienced declining ridership, making the service financially unsustainable. According to West Bengal Transport Minister Snehashish Chakraborty, trams contribute to peak hour traffic jams and are no longer viable due to increased vehicular traffic. Roads comprise only 6% of Kolkata's surface area, and the increase in vehicles has led to congestion, making it difficult for trams and other vehicles to share the same routes. The government argues that faster transport options are necessary to prevent commuters from being late during peak hours.
Despite the government's stance, the decision to discontinue most tram routes has faced opposition from locals and heritage enthusiasts. Many view the trams as a significant part of Kolkata's rich history, a symbol of the city's heritage and charm. The Calcutta Tram Users Association (CTUA), formed in 2016, has been at the forefront of advocating for the conservation of trams. They argue that trams are non-polluting and, with an average speed of 20-30km/h, are not slow-moving. The CTUA has launched campaigns and protests to save the trams, emphasizing their environmental and economic benefits. Some commuters have expressed concerns about the increased cost of travel if trams are discontinued, as buses and taxis are more expensive.
While most routes are slated to shut down, the West Bengal government plans to preserve a small heritage stretch from Maidan to Esplanade. This 4 km route will allow future generations to experience a piece of Kolkata's history, even as the city moves forward with modern transit solutions. The heritage route aims to offer residents and tourists an opportunity to experience tram travel in a scenic and eco-friendly manner, preserving a small part of Kolkata's cultural history. The issue of discontinuing trams is also pending before the Calcutta High Court, which has suggested a public-private partnership model to restore and rejuvenate tramcar services.
As Kolkata embraces modernization, the necessity for efficient transport outweighs the nostalgia associated with the trams. While the trams may no longer serve the needs of the city's growing population and evolving infrastructure, their legacy will endure in the collective memory of Kolkata. The remaining heritage route will serve as a reminder of the trams' contribution to the city's identity, preserving a connection to the past while accommodating the demands of the present.
