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Kolkata's only tram service has stopped after 151 years. It was the first tram service in India and the only tram service in Asia. It has been decided to discontinue this service which has been the heartbeat of the city for more than 151 years. In such a situation, let us know what is its history and how it started.
How did Kolkata's tram service start?
The first tram service was started in Kolkata in 1873. Also, it was a hand-pulled tram and gradually it became horse-drawn. Later it started running on electricity. Kolkata's trams were not only an important part of the city's transportation system but also a part of the city's culture and identity. Due to increasing urbanization, traffic congestion and the advent of modern means of transportation, the tram service gradually weakened.
What is the history of Kolkata's tram?
Kolkata was a rapidly growing city in the mid-19th century. In view of the increasing population of the city, the need for a cheap and convenient means of transportation was felt. To meet this need, the first tram service was started in Kolkata in 1873.
Initially these trams were pulled by hand. Later they started being pulled by horses. Electricity was invented at the end of the 19th century and then Kolkata's trams started running on electricity.
Tram became the identity of Kolkata
Kolkata's trams were not only a means of transportation but also a part of the city's culture and identity. It became an integral part of the life of the people of the city. Traveling in the tram was an experience. Seeing the city in the slow motion of the tram was a different experience.
Why is the tram service being stopped?
The popularity of trams has declined with the advent of modern means of transport such as metro, buses and auto-rickshaws. The increasing traffic congestion in the city has made it difficult to manage the trams. There is a lack of sufficient funds for the maintenance of tram lines. Apart from this, running a tram service is very expensive.
end of an era
The decision to stop Kolkata's tram service is a big blow to the people of the city. This is the historical heritage of the city and losing it is a big loss for the city.
It is noteworthy that protests have taken place several times against the decision to stop Kolkata's tram service. People are demanding withdrawal of this decision. Some believe that the tram service can be saved and efforts can be made to modernize it.