Trams To Discontinue Services In Kolkata: Locals Protest

Trams To Discontinue Services In Kolkata: End Of A 150-Year Era

Posted September 26, 2024

Trams to discontinue services in Kolkata after 150 years! Kolkata, the only city in India still using trams, will soon end most of its tram routes. The West Bengal government made this decision after the trams had been running for 150 years. Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty said the main reason for stopping the trams is that they cause too much traffic in the city. Though the tram service faces discontinuation, not all trams will disappear. The famous route between Maidan and Esplanade will keep running to preserve some of Kolkata’s history.

Many people in Kolkata are not happy about the decision to stop most tram services. Residents and tram fans are disappointed because they feel the trams are an important part of their city’s history.

Kolkata’s Trams: A 150-Year Journey Comes To An End

Kolkata’s trams have a long and rich history. They started in 1873 as horse-drawn carriages and have been a key part of the city’s public transport for over 150 years. Many people think of trams when they think of Kolkata, as they’re one of the things that make the city special.

The decision to stop most tram services has upset many locals.

However, the government says they have practical reasons for this decision. The transport minister explained that Kolkata’s streets are narrow, with only 6% of the city being roads. These roads are struggling to handle the slow-moving trams along with all the other vehicles.

They say traffic congestion is already a big problem in Kolkata.

Gradual Phasing Out Of Kolkata’s Trams?

Kolkata has already stopped tram services on several routes across the city. This seems to be part of a step-by-step plan to end most tram services.
As the tram service faces discontinuation, the government plans to keep one special tram line running. This route, from Maidan to Esplanade, will stay open. This means locals and tourists can still enjoy a bit of Kolkata’s old-world charm.
The state government says this heritage route will offer a nice, environmentally-friendly way to travel in the city.

Locals Protest Tram Closure

Many people in Kolkata are protesting because they are unhappy about the discontinuation of tram services and believe they are more than just a way to get around. For them, trams represent an important part of Kolkata’s culture and history.

Right now, the Calcutta High Court is looking into this issue. This means the final decision about the trams’ future might change, depending on what the court decides.

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