A Heritage Lost: Kolkata builds adieu to its 150-year-old trams

Kolkata’s classic tram system set to end after 150 years (Photo: MIG)

Earlier this week, Snehasis Chakraborty, Transport Minister, West Bengal, announced the discontinuation of Kolkata’s classic tram system, retaining a single ‘heritage’ route between Esplanade and Maidan neighbourhoods for tourism purposes.

Despite having gone through many on-off phases as it was discontinued and reinstated on numerous occasions, many other cities in India, notably Mumbai, and Delhi, were inspired by Kolkata and mounted their own tram systems. Unfortunately, they were operated for rather brief time, leaving Kolkata to possess the only tram system in the country.

But even Kolkata could not manage to keep this sustainable and highly affordable urban transport system. Due to lack of investments and poor planning, the once-glorious public transport network struggled to adapt to advancements in the industry, the rise of modern alternatives, and the demands of fast-paced urban life. Ultimately, the last Indian city, Kolkata, to maintain a functional tram system is now phasing it out, marking the end of an era.

This decision, that the state government says is aimed at fixing the congestion caused by slow moving trams in modern traffic conditions, has sparked outrage amongst citizens and raised concerns of the city’s commitment to sustainable transit solutions and heritage.

The discontinuation this beloved and eco-friendly mode of transport has also led to protests in the state’s capital. Calcutta Tram Users Association (CTUA) on September 26 gathered a group of enthusiasts at the Shyambazar tram depot in Kolkata to show their discontent to the discontinuation of the tram system and urging government to reconsider their decision.

Many citizens also took to social media to express their disappointment with the government.  “Bravo to the powers that be for shutting down Calcutta’s century-old tram system, a symbol of heritage and sustainability. Instead of modernising it, they chose to let it decay- why preserve history when you can erase it? Who needs eco-friendly transport when chaos reigns supreme? Another piece of Kolkata’s soul, discarded without a second thought,” wrote a user on X, a social media platform.

India turns its back on green mobility

Trams, or Light Rail Transit, represent one of the most efficient and eco-friendly modes of transportation, making them essential in today’s urban landscape. Their installation costs are significantly lower than those of other modern systems like metros and subways, while also providing better accessibility and last-mile connectivity.

As of 2021, over 400 cities globally featured a functional tram network, including places which have made significant technological advancements like Melbourne, Tokyo and Berlin. Europe alone boasts 58 pc of the world’s total network of light rail transit, another name for tram.

The irony is stark, while countries around the world are starting to recognise the importance of trams and are actively working to revive and enhance this sustainable mode of public transport, West Bengal government seems to have forced Kolkata to give up on its cultural identity and the innovative transit system that once set it apart. The government’s decision to phase out the trams symbolises the end of a legacy and a unique appeal of Kolkata’s trams.