The West Bengal government has announced to Discontinue Kolkata’s Tram Services, except for the route between Esplanade and Maidan. This decision marks the end of over 150 years of tram operations in the city, leaving Kolkata as the last Indian city with functioning trams.
Key Details of Discontinue Kolkata’s Tram Services
Kolkata’s tram service, once an essential mode of transportation, has been facing shutdowns for several years. As of 2022, only two routes were active, a sharp decline from the 37 routes in 2011. The state government has cited traffic congestion and the need for faster transport options as the main reasons behind the decision.
| Year | Number of Tram Routes | Total Passengers |
| 2011 | 37 | 70,000 |
| 2022 | 2 | 5,000 – 7,000 |
Reasons Behind Discontinuation
Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty stated that the roads in Kolkata are narrow, and the increasing number of vehicles causes severe traffic jams. The slow-moving trams contribute to this issue, especially during peak hours. The government decided to halt trams on most routes to reduce traffic and ensure timely office commutes for residents.
Kolkata Trams’ Impact
Kolkata’s trams were once part of India’s rich transport history, with many cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai, also operating tram services. However, most of these cities discontinued tram operations due to the need for more modern transport systems. The end of Kolkata’s tram service signifies the final closure of India’s once-thriving tram network, leaving behind only a heritage joyride on the Esplanade-Maidan route.
Aims of the Tram Service Closure
The primary motivation for discontinuing trams in Kolkata is to reduce traffic congestion and promote faster transport options. While the trams hold historical and cultural significance, their slow pace no longer meets the demands of a growing, fast-paced city. The West Bengal government aims to improve urban mobility while retaining a small piece of tram history for tourists through the heritage route.
Discontinue Kolkata’s Tram Services Summary
- Kolkata trams will be discontinued, except for the heritage route between Esplanade and Maidan.
- Trams caused traffic jams due to narrow roads and slow speeds, leading to their removal.
- Kolkata was the last city in India with operational trams, marking the end of a historical era.
- Only two tram routes were active in 2022, a sharp decline from 37 in 2011.
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The government decided to discontinue trams due to increasing traffic congestion and the need for faster transportation options.
Yes, a heritage route between Esplanade and Maidan will remain as a tourist attraction.
In 2011, Kolkata had 37 tram routes.
The removal of trams is expected to reduce traffic congestion and improve travel times during peak hours.
Horse-drawn trams were introduced in 1873, followed by electric trams in 1902.