Trams of Kolkata: A Heritage at Risk

In Kolkata, trams are much more than a mean of transport. They represent the soul of the city. A sizeable section of people is emotionally connected to these trams. People remember sounds and sights along with the feeling of hanging onto those trams. However, this attachment would come in danger now since the West Bengal government has decided to trim tram routes and that has brought tears and despondency among many.

Trams are in Kolkata since 1873. Initially, they were horse-drawn carriages and later turned into electric ones. This makes the city of Kolkata the first place in India to have trams. For most people, trams are a piece of moving history. Reminiscent of the yesteryears, they connect us all to our roots.

Not many are satisfied with the government’s choice. Many of them feel that this is a loss to their heritage. They have grown up in a world with trams. They are associated with memories. Many cannot bear the idea of loss if they see trams all their lives.

Why Trams Matter

Trams are not just old cars; they are part of the culture of Kolkata. People from different generations realize the values of trams. Kids of today also appreciate their historical value. Many young people think it is wrong to remove something so important in lieu of modernization.

Tourists also love the trams. It is something unique that Kolkata has to offer. The city is known for celebrating culture, and the tram contributes much to it. If the trams are to leave the city, something would change that makes Kolkata special.

Many are questioning and opining about this error that Kolkata’s government is committing. Many feel that trams help reduce traffic, in that one can enter a covered tram and go along with many others, thus reducing the number of cars on the road. That could be effective in pollution and congestion control.

Voices of Concern

One of the tram conductors reacted to these changes by telling his feelings. He has been working with trams for almost 40 years. In his opinion, there were many more trams and routes than today, when he can see only a few. It gives him an impression as if he was losing a part of his life.

But people fear for the future of trams. They might vanish totally after reaching the limits of routes. The younger generation wants to retain this trace of history. They want future generations to have the experience of riding on trams.

The Case Against Change

Trams slow down traffic, argues the government. This is the cause of jams, they add. People at large do not agree. Cars and others, they claim, are the real causes of traffic. In fact, trams can move at a speed of 40 kilometers per hour. While the average speed of cars in Kolkata is just about 20 kilometers per hour. Who are the real villains behind the jams?

People are now emerging and coming together under the umbrella of trams. They would not let them disappear from the face of the earth. According to them, keeping trams is important for the identity of the city and culture. Many say that there is a need to take care of the traffic rather than cutting off tram services by the government.

Future of Kolkata’s Trams

The future of trams in Kolkata is still on tenterhooks. The issue is still pending in court. To date, the government decision has been opposed by the Tram Users Association. They are determined to keep the trams rolling and have been actively contesting the proposals aimed at shutting them down.

People from all walks of life came forward to plead the cause of the trams. They felt necessary to preserve this heritage. They hope that the government will reconsider its decision and devise some way to improve traffic without affecting the tram system.

Conclusion

Trams of Kolkata are not just a mode of transport but an epitome of history. That which is death for trams will be a part sure of loss that Kolkata will face to be a part of this great city. High time for every one of us who still believes in trams and their importance in this city, hence the need to contribute towards efforts towards saving this heritage by fighting further to save them.