Kolkata’s Iconic Trams

Trams have been operational in our city for almost two and a half centuries. No one can picture “The City Of Joy” without this one of its kind trams. Though they have reduced in numbers because of stiff competition faced by other modes of transport, they are far from extinct. A trip to Kolkata is incomplete without a tram ride across the city. Today it is the only surviving tram system in India, and possibly the only one in Asia. Although it was originally an important mode of transport, lately these trams have become very popular with tourists.

The routes of the trams run parallel to other vehicles on tracks laid out alongside the busy streets. In spite of ruckus and car honking and busy traffic, you can distinctly differentiate the rumbling sound of trams with ringing bells. Since its inception trams have been an integral part of our culture. These iconic trams have transformed from necessity in the 19th century to vintage in recent times. One ride in these trams can make you feel going back in time and reliving history.

The first attempt to run tramway service (2.4 mile) in Kolkata was done in 1873 between Sealdah and Armenian Ghat Street, but due to lack of patrons, the services remained discontinued for the next seven years. The second attempt was made using horse-drawn trams around 1880. But with the introduction of electricity, electrically driven trams have been in service to date. Initially, it was used for the transport of goods from the ports to the offices of the East India company. Though trams are considered iconic today, it was regarded as British imported goods in the colonial period.

You will be able to get the old world charm of our city vibe while taking a ride in a tram. As it slowly glides through congested lanes you can lean back and watch this historical city. Inside a tram, you will find wood and metal benches laid out in rows on either side. Wide windows are present on both sides with painted bars and noisy fans whirring above your head. When you are planning to get on or off from a tram, the conductor rings a bell, both to halt and to give a green signal to start again.

CTC (The Calcutta Tramways Company Limited), which was registered in 1880 as a private company in London. Today the tram service is run by the Government of West Bengal. With the advent of other modes of public transport, tram network services have visibly reduced. Many cities in India have closed tram services by the late 20th century, due to the reeling pressure of fast urbanization. But tram services in Kolkata have stood the test of time. Today CTC is evolving with time to keep up the pace with our generation. These trams have featured in numerous movies, books, and poems.