Soumi Goswami
CTC- The Calcutta Tram Company is not just a mode of public transport, it’s an emotion. Its intricate network of tramways is like the nervous system of every Bengali. There is not one Kolkata resident, who doesn’t pride over The Calcutta Tram.
Need we mention that it is the only tram network under operation in India?
The foundation- Enroute!
Let’s go back to the history of trams in Kolkata to amaze you a little more. The early tramway was formed and registered in London during the British rule. It ran its first course in the year 1880 after it was inaugurated by Viceroy Lord Ripon on 1st November.
How Many Miles?
It ran for 2.4 miles, which is 3.9 kilometers for its first run. It ran between Sealdah and Armenian Ghat Street for its first run. Later, its operation came to a halt for a couple of years.
An Experimental Rising
After two years in 1882, as an experiment, the tram services began operation. At that time, steam locomotives hauled the tram cars.
Horse Driven Tram
There was also a time, in this old era, when horses hauled the tram cars. With the successful experimentation of steam locomotives, by the end of the century, The Calcutta Tram Company-
The Era of Electric Trams and No Looking Back
Electric Trams came into existence in Kolkata in the 1900s. The first electric tram ran from Esplanade to Kidderpore. Ever Since this operation, there has been no look back in the history of trams. The tramways began to spread across the city and new routes were added to its network.
The Bengal Government Owns
Later in independent India, in the year 1951, the government of West Bengal had an agreement with the company to bring to effect the Calcutta Tramways Act.
Many measures are taken to preserve national pride- Kolkata Trams for centuries. The trams are still in operation only in Kolkata in India. So, savor a ride and bring back the old memories.
Update- Kolkata Tram is also set to get its one-of-a-kind Tram Library. So, good news for all the book bugs. Read and explore!
