The city of Kolkata, long known for its iconic tram system, is preparing to bid farewell to a mode of transport that has been a part of its landscape for over 150 years. Trams, once synonymous with the city, are being discontinued, leaving behind an air of nostalgia and a wave of protests. At its peak, Kolkata boasted around 27-28 tram routes, and even 15 years ago, a dozen of these lines were still operational. Today, the dwindling presence of these slow-moving, eco-friendly vehicles is a matter of both history and heartbreak.
For many, trams represent more than just transport—they evoke memories of jingling bells, wooden seats, and the simple joy of munching on fried nuts while watching the city go by. One tram enthusiast reminisced, “The tram experience is like no other. It’s a connection to our past, and it saddens me that future generations may never know what it feels like.”
Kolkata is currently the only Indian city with operational trams, and this decision has sparked widespread protests. Debashish Bhattacharya, president of the Calcutta Tram Users Association, voiced his frustration: “This tram is not just a mode of transport; it’s a proud symbol of Kolkata’s rich heritage. The government’s decision to discontinue tram services feels like the end of an era.”
Daily commuters, too, have expressed their disappointment. For many, the tram is more than a nostalgic ride—it’s an eco-friendly, affordable option for everyday travel. “How can they remove the tram, the only green vehicle left in the city?” one passenger asked. Another commuter added, “If trams are being removed today, what’s stopping them from discontinuing the yellow taxis tomorrow? The government is failing to preserve Kolkata’s identity.”
The Calcutta Tram Users Association has taken the matter to the High Court, filing a public interest litigation (PIL) to urge the continuation of tram services. In response, the court has requested clarification from the government on its policy regarding the future of the trams.
Transport Minister Snehashis Chakraborty addressed the concerns, stating, “We have confirmed that trams will continue to operate only on the Maldan-Dharamtala route. However, slow-moving trams are impractical in today’s world where people need faster transport, particularly during peak hours. Trams contribute to traffic congestion, which is why we are scaling them back.”
As Kolkata prepares to say goodbye to its beloved trams, a question remains: Will the city’s identity survive without this enduring symbol of its heritage? For now, the fight to preserve Kolkata’s trams continues, even as the wheels slowly come to a halt.
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