Source: Times Now

Kolkata’s tram system, an iconic symbol of the city’s rich history and culture, is facing the prospect of permanent closure. Introduced in 1873 as horse-drawn carriages and later electrified in 1902, these trams have served the city for over 150 years. However, due to modern transportation demands and increasing congestion on the narrow streets, the West Bengal government has made the difficult decision to discontinue this heritage service, save for a few heritage routes.

The End of an Era

For over a century, Kolkata’s trams played a significant role in the city’s daily life, not just as a mode of transport but as a cultural landmark. At its peak, the network stretched across the city, facilitating smooth and eco-friendly travel. However, the rising need for faster, more efficient transportation systems and the pressure of vehicular congestion on Kolkata’s limited road space have led to a gradual reduction in the services over the years. Currently, only a few operational routes remain, mostly in North Kolkata, and these too are now slated for discontinuation.

The state government’s primary concern is the slow speed of trams, which reportedly causes major traffic bottlenecks during peak hours. With the city’s roads comprising just 6% of its total surface area, there is little room to accommodate the slow-moving trams alongside modern vehicles. This, officials argue, make them system increasingly impractical in the fast-paced urban landscape of today’s Kolkata.

Nostalgia and Protests

The decision to shut down the tram system has sparked protests from heritage conservationists, environmentalists, and long-time residents. Many people argue that trams are not only eco-friendly, emitting zero pollutants, but are also an irreplaceable part of Kolkata’s identity. Campaigners from the Calcutta Tram Users Association (CUTA) have taken to the streets in protest, calling for the government to repair existing tramcars and depots rather than shutting down the system entirely. They argue that the average speed of trams—between 20 to 30 km/h—is comparable to that of most cars in the city.

Heritage activists also suggest that the city could learn from global examples where tram systems have been modernized and integrated into urban traffic without causing disruption. They propose a public-private partnership model to revive the network and make it a viable part of the city’s future transportation landscape. However, these suggestions face significant challenges, as the city’s focus remains on developing more efficient transport systems like metro rail and electric buses.

A Small Ray of Hope: Heritage Routes

In a small concession to tram enthusiasts and tourists, the state government plans to retain one operational route between Maidan and Esplanade. This heritage route will offer joyrides through the heart of the city, allowing future generations to experience a slice of Kolkata’s history. These rides are expected to appeal primarily to tourists and nostalgia seekers, providing a more leisurely and eco-friendly experience in contrast to the city’s fast-paced transportation needs.

While the decision to shut down most tram services has sparked debate, it reflects a broader global trend of cities moving away from slower, traditional transport systems in favor of more efficient, rapid solutions. Still, for the people of Kolkata, the closure of their beloved trams signifies not just the end of a transport service but the loss of a living piece of the city’s cultural heritage.

What Lies Ahead

As Kolkata looks to the future with expanding metro networks and electric vehicle adoption, the fate of the trams stands as a reminder of the city’s balancing act between modernization and preservation. Though efforts by activists may continue, it seems that they are now set to become more of a memory than a mainstay of Kolkata’s streets.

The nostalgia and emotions tied would undoubtedly linger long after they disappear from the city’s roads. In the minds of many Kolkatans, these are more than just vehicles; they are a symbol of the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, history, and progress. As they roll into the annals of history, Kolkata bids a bittersweet farewell to one of its most cherished symbols.

The end of Kolkata’s tram system marks the closure of a significant chapter in the city’s rich history. While some aspects of the trams will survive in the form of heritage routes, the full-scale operation of these iconic vehicles has become a casualty of progress.

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