Home › infotainment › # Tram on Fading Track #

# Tram on Fading Track #

By vermavkv on November 21, 2023 • ( 24 )

Pollution-Free and Comfortable Ride

In the Heart of Kolkata, where history blends with the lively pace of present-day life, there is a special and valuable attraction that captures the memories of the past – the famous trams of Kolkata.

These delightful pieces of history used to be the main mode of transport and have played a significant role in connecting different generations to their rich cultural roots.

Yet, today, they face a slow, quiet death, disappearing into the shadows of more convenient and faster modes of transport.

when I first encountered Tram in Kolkata

Traveling back to my memories of 22 years back, It was in the year 2001 when I first stepped foot in Kolkata, and the first transportation I encountered was the tram.

It was a thrilling experience, a journey into a living museum, a piece of history in motion. The trams became my beloved mode of transport in the city of joy.

But the wheels of time have not been kind to these enduring symbols of Kolkata’s heritage. The tram system, which has been running for over a century and a half, is now at a crossroads, struggling for its very existence.

Yes, In the bustling city of Kolkata, once known for its vibrant tram system, a nostalgic lament echoes through the streets.

The rich cultural heritage and historical significance of the city are woven into the very fabric of its iconic trams, which have been an inseparable part of the city’s identity for over a century.

the gradual disappearance of Trams

However, the gradual disappearance of these charming vehicles from the city’s landscape paints a somber picture. As modernization paves the way for faster, more efficient modes of transport, the trams have sadly been relegated to the sidelines, facing neglect and the threat of extinction.

Once the lifeline of Kolkata, these trams now stand as a poignant symbol of a bygone era, evoking cherished memories and emotional attachments for many who recall the days when the trams were more than just a means of transportation—they were a testament to the city’s vibrant culture and heritage.

As cities around the world are embracing sustainable modes of transport, the importance of preserving the tram system becomes ever more evident.

trams offer a multitude of benefits

Beyond their historical significance, trams offer a multitude of benefits that modern transportation often struggles to provide. From their lower environmental impact to their capacity to foster a sense of community, trams are more than just a mode of transit—they are a vital thread connecting the past to the present and paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

While challenges such as urbanization, traffic congestion, and inadequate infrastructure have cast a shadow on the future of trams in Indian cities, Kolkata stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing the potential of these nostalgic vehicles in shaping a more environmentally friendly and community-oriented urban landscape.

Sustainable and culturally rich future

The time has come to recognize the significance of trams, not just as a relic of the past, but as a cornerstone of a sustainable and culturally rich future.

Friends, In a world racing toward the future, we must not forget the threads that connect us to our cultural roots. Trams are not just a means of transportation; they are a piece of living history. They represent the charm of a bygone era and the promise of a more sustainable future.

As we look ahead, let us remember the significance of trams in our urban landscape, not just as vehicles of the past, but as carriers of a greener and more connected future. It’s time we ask ourselves: Why do we need trams? The answer lies in our heritage, our culture, and our commitment to a more sustainable world

Let us not allow these heritage vehicles to fade into obscurity, but rather, let us champion their revival, keeping alive the spirit of a city that cherishes its history and embraces progress in harmony with its cultural legacy.