An ode to Kolkata’s tram

Growing up in Kolkata, trams have always been more than just a mode of transport for me; it’s been a source of respite from the chaos all around. The familiar sound of the tram’s bell which could be heard in every nook and corner and the gentle sway of the carriage through the bustling streets, trams became synonymous with my life in the city of joy. The perpetual news to cease the tram services feels like a piece of my childhood slipping away.

The history of trams goes back to the colonial era when horse-driven trams were introduced in the U.K. and were discontinued in the year 1882. During that same year, steam locomotives were deployed in Calcutta (now Kolkata). Two decades later in the year 1902, the electric tram was born in the city and since then it has been the pride of Kolkata. It is the oldest operating electric tram system in Asia — a testament to Kolkata’s dynamic vision. For over 150 years, trams have run on the streets of Kolkata, symbolising the rich heritage and quaint spirit of the city.

The two-coach tramcars are manned by two conductors, one in each. The tram conductors are renowned for their brown uniform, shoulder satchels and neatly folded tickets and notes between their fingers. The tram routes run parallel to other vehicles and on special tracks along the side of busy streets. If you are wondering if trams follow traffic lights then the answer is YES. Every tramcar has a distinct design — huge circular fans on the ceiling, windows with railings, wooden seats, an antique bell and dim yellow lights. The tram’s bell rings melodically, cutting through the cacophony of chatter and honking horns. The iconic wooden seats have served as a backdrop for several stories capturing the essence of Kolkata’s culture.

My first memory of riding the tram to my grandmother’s house is etched vividly in my mind. It was during one of the summer evenings when the city’s humidity slowly faded away and there was a cool breeze. My mother and I boarded the tram from the Esplanade tram depot and headed towards Khidderpore — this was when the tram was still functional on the scenic route of Maidan. We sat on the circular seat at the end of the tram and were captivated by the rhythmic clatter of wheels on the track and the sound of the tram bell echoing on the street. As we glided through the city to our destination, I wished for the ride to go on forever. Every time I revisit this memory, it reminds me of a simpler time and beautiful moments with my mother.

Tram is one of the most economical ways to travel across the city. The low-cost fare is just another charm of it that makes it accessible for one and all. During its pinnacle, the tram’s first coach was considered a first-class coach and the other one was a second-class coach with a lower fare than the first coach. It was in the year 2013 that the Government of West Bengal made the fare the same for both coaches. When I was a kid, it was mind-blowing to know that I could travel from Esplanade to Gariahat for just ₹ 6! Riding in the tram allowed me to explore my city without breaking the bank.

Fast forward a few years, I took my best friend, Sampurna, on her first-ever tram rides on one sunny afternoon in December to the hub of books — College Street. Our excitement was at its peak and as we stepped onto the tram, the warm winter sun through the window welcomed us. We revelled in each other’s company and shared many stories until we reached our destination — a heaven for book lovers.

With another friend of mine, we chose a different route that led us to a small quaint cafe for chocolate. It was his first-ever tram ride too. We had to wait over 20 minutes for the tram to arrive at the depot. My friend was full of zeal to experience his first-ever tram ride. We settled into our wooden seats and as the tram rattled on making a stop every once in a while we couldn’t help but feel excited. It was a day filled with the joy of discovering our city together!

Seeing my friends enjoy the tram ride, pointing out sights and sharing stories, filled me with happiness. It is always a personal win to introduce people to the gems of your city and relish their first-time experience.