Kolkata To Soon Bid Adieu To The Iconic 150-YO Tram Service; Only The Maidan-Esplanade Heritage Route To Be Preserved

The iconic tram services in Kolkata have been a cultural symbol of the city for more than 150 years at this point. However, unfortunately, Kolkata officials have deemed this mode of transport impractical for the city and have decided to discontinue the tram services. Understandably, this decision has not gone over well with the locals. In order to preserve a smidgen of this cultural heritage, only the route between Maidan and Esplanade will be preserved. 

Kolkata To Soon Bid Adieu To The Iconic Tram Service

According to an article which was recently published by The Times of India or TOI, the decision was taken by the government of West Bengal. Most of the routes for the tram services will be discontinued. If reports are to go by, the reason for this decision is the increasing traffic on the road.

The decision was announced by the Transport Minister, Snehasis Chakraborty, who said that the increasing traffic on the road has made sustaining tram services impractical. However, the tram services have been a part of this city for more than 150 years.

As such, they are viewed by many as inextricably linked to the city, its culture and its heritage. The decision is therefore set to dishearten many.

Also Read: Durga Puja 2024: Pandal Hopping Is Incomplete Without Visiting These 5 Iconic Pandals In South Kolkata

Only The Route Between Maidan And Esplanade To Continue

However, in order to preserve at least a part of this iconic legacy, only one route will be preserved as a symbol of its significance and heritage. This will be the route between Maidan and Esplanade. This particular route will be preserved and will provide an eco-friendly heritage experience for those who wish to reminisce about the bygone era.

As per the officials, the roads in Kolkata are narrow and have limited space. The increasing number of vehicles on the road have made it all the more difficult for trams to ply.

Also Read: After 150 Yrs, Tram Routes In Kolkata To Be Significantly Limited; Officials Say, “Not Practical In Today’s Cities”

Do you agree that the trams in the city had become unsustainable? Will you miss the services once they are off the street? Let us know in the comments section below!

Cover Image Credits: Canva Images

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