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Kolkata Plans To Revive Trams; New Route To Connect Historical Dakshineswar & Kalighat Temples

Kolkata Trams

The West Bengal government has decided to reintroduce air-conditioned trams in Kolkata and develop new routes as part of plans to modernise the city’s transport network. Officials are also planning a new tram route that may link the Dakshineswar Kali Temple and Kalighat Kali Temple. Here’s what we know so far.

Kolkata Plans To Add New Tram Routes To The City

With the aim of boosting religious tourism in Kolkata, the West Bengal government is set to launch a new tram route connecting the Dakshineswar and Kalighat Kali temples. According to The Economic Times, the decision was recently announced by West Bengal Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty. The state is also working to revive tram services in Kolkata by introducing air-conditioned trams across the city and adjacent Rajarhat-New Town and Salt Lake. These trams are expected to be of international standard.

Reportedly, all tram lines will be newly laid on the left side of the roads. The most important change is that these tramcars will not run on electricity but on batteries or other alternative energy sources. RITES Limited has been appointed to conduct a survey for the tram revival and expansion plan.

Also Read: Kolkata To Soon Get A Grand Lord Balaji Temple & Here’s All You Need To Know!

More AC Buses Also Planned

According to the West Bengal Transport Corporation website, Kolkata’s tram system was introduced in 1873, when horse-drawn carriages operated on the tracks. Air-conditioned trams were introduced in 2013 but were later discontinued. Currently, trams operate on only a few routes in Kolkata.

According to Hindustan Times, the minister also announced that West Bengal will add new air-conditioned buses, both electric and CNG-powered, to the existing fleet. A proper charging infrastructure for electric buses is also part of the plan. Notably, the government is also exploring the development of inland waterway transport and a port along the Ganges. The aim is to strengthen the state’s transport ecosystem.

Also Read: Kolkata Welcomes Its First Starbucks Reserve With Rare Coffees & Rooftop Views

So, if everything goes as planned, Kolkata could soon get new tram routes. What do you think about this?

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Leonid Andronov and @ShubhamPathakIN/X (Representative Image)

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FAQs

Why is Kolkata planning to revive the tram system?

The West Bengal government is planning to revive trams to modernise public transport and boost religious tourism.

What to do in Kolkata?

In Kolkata, you can visit Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and Kalighat Temple, enjoy street food and soak in the rich culture of the city.

What is a tramcar?

Ashmeet Guliani: A coffee lover at heart, Ashmeet is a writer who enjoys exploring new cafes, hidden gems and bookstores. When not working, she’s usually found with a book in hand, cafe-hopping, or spending time with dogs.