End of the track? Kolkata’s 152-year-old tram network faces shutdown

For more than a century, trams have moved through Kolkata’s streets, passing colonial-era buildings and forming part of the city’s daily soundscape with their chiming bells. Introduced in the 19th century, the trams once served as a key mode of transport for generations of commuters.

Now, the system is on the verge of closure as authorities consider ending regular tram operations, citing changing transport needs and the push for modern infrastructure. The West Bengal government plans to shut down the tram network, which is 152 years old, while keeping only a limited heritage route.

The proposal has led to a court battle, with residents and heritage advocates challenging the decision and calling for the preservation of the tram system.

“As children, we would take the trams for fun, but as I grew older it became a necessity,” said Abha Maity, 44. Recalling her tram rides to school and college, she added, “I can’t imagine Kolkata without them.”

Once a defining feature of Kolkata’s streets, the trams now struggle to operate amid increasing traffic congestion. They compete for road space with buses and the city’s iconic yellow taxis as Kolkata expands its transport infrastructure and looks to introduce faster travel options.

Kolkata introduced horse-drawn trams in 1873. The system was electrified in 1902. At its peak, the tram network had more than 340 trams in operation and covered large parts of the city. At present, only two routes remain functional, with a fleet of about 10 trams.

“When I joined, more than 340 trams were running. Now it’s down to seven or eight,” said Bacchu Sidda, a tram conductor who has worked for 36 years. He continues to check his duty roster pinned to a board at the last functioning tram depot in Gariahat.

Over the years, the state government has sold tram depots and scrapped several tram cars. These moves prompted the Calcutta Tram Users Association (CTUA), a citizens’ group, to approach the courts. CTUA has been campaigning since 2016 to protect what remains of the tram system.

“I love my trams more than myself,” said Deep Das, 19, a journalism student and CTUA member. “If they disappear, it will be like a part of my body has left me.”

Despite opposition, authorities continue to invest heavily in upgrading Kolkata’s transport infrastructure. The focus has been on metro rail expansion, widening roads and building new highways to reduce traffic congestion.

For now, the future of Kolkata’s trams remains uncertain. The matter is awaiting court review, even as a small number of passengers continue to ride the aging trams, viewing them as living reminders of the city’s past.

(With inputs from Reuters)