Kolkata’s iconic 150-year-old tram service faces discontinuation; heritage stretch from Maidan to Esplanade will continue

Kolkata, the last Indian city to operate trams, is set to bid farewell to its 150-year-old tram service as the West Bengal government has decided to discontinue most of its routes. Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty announced the decision, citing increasing traffic congestion in the city as a primary reason. However, the historic stretch between Maidan and Esplanade will continue to operate, preserving a part of the city's cultural heritage.

This decision, however, did not sit well with the locals. Many residents and tram enthusiasts are disappointed with this decision because they view the trams as a significant part of Kolkata's history and identity.



Did you know that the trams were introduced in 1873 as horse-drawn carriages? For as long as one can remember, the trams have played a central role in Kolkata's public transportation system. Because of their presence for over a century, the people always associated trams with Kolkata. With this new decision, Kolkata will lose one of its most distinctive features. It's true that the trams were one of the many things that set Kolkata apart from other Indian cities.

It's true that heritage and nostalgia are associated with the trams. If reports are to go by, the government maintains that the decision is purely driven by practical concerns. According to the transport minister, Kolkata's narrow streets and limited road space account for only six percent of the city's surface area. The roads are increasingly unable to accommodate the slow-moving trams. The number of vehicles on the roads are not decreasing, so this can only mean that in the near future, the problem of traffic jams during the peak hours is only going to get more difficult. At present, traffic congestion is one of the city's woes.

Also read: The Pyramids of Giza are NOT the oldest pyramids in the world—this one is

The city has already suspended several tram routes across the city. Is this a gradual phasing-out of the service? It definitely looks like it. The government, however, plans to continue the heritage tram line from Maidan to Esplanade. With this line still available, the locals and tourists will still be able to experience Kolkata's historical charm. Not all will be lost.


As per the state government, this heritage route will continue to provide a pleasant and eco-friendly travel experience in the city.
Also read: Offbeat travel: Explore the world’s remotest airports

The decision to discontinue the tram service has sparked protests among locals. They are of the opinion that the trams are not just a mode of transportation, they are also a symbol of the city's rich cultural legacy. Losing this would mean losing a very big part of the city's heritage.


As of now, the matter is under consideration by the Calcutta High Court.