Celebrating 152 Years of Calcutta's Trams: iconic wooden tram to rule the city - GetBengal story
On February 24, 1873, history was made in Calcutta (now Kolkata) as the British introduced the city’s first horse-drawn tram service. The tram made its inaugural journey from Sealdah to Armenian Ghat, marking the beginning of a new era in urban transport. Fast forward to March 27, 1902, and the city saw the first electric tram running on the Dharmatala-Khiridpur route, taking transportation in Calcutta to a new level. These trams have seen remarkable changes over the years—what began as humble horse-drawn wooden vehicles has now evolved into modern, air-conditioned iron trams.
This year, on Monday, February 24, 2025, the city is celebrating a monumental milestone: the 152nd anniversary of the tram service. The occasion will be marked by the departure of tram number 498, a beloved relic that holds many memories for tram enthusiasts and Kolkata’s residents alike. This iconic wooden tram, built during World War II, has been an integral part of the city’s transport history. Despite the passage of decades, it still holds a special place in the hearts of tram lovers.
Tram number 498 will begin its celebratory journey at 9 am, departing from the Gariahat Tram Depot. As the tram makes its way toward Esplanade, several children and tram enthusiasts will board to join the ride, all eager to relive the nostalgia of a bygone era. The journey will continue towards the Shyambazar Tram Depot, where a cultural program is scheduled to take place. These festivities aim to celebrate the tram's legacy and the role it has played in shaping the city’s transport system.
The event, organized by the Calcutta Users Association, a group of passionate tram supporters, is significant for more than just its nostalgic value. Tram number 498 is an embodiment of Kolkata’s rich cultural history and its transportation legacy. The association has rented this vintage tram from the government for the occasion, underscoring the tram’s importance in the city’s historical narrative.
However, the future of the tram system in Kolkata remains uncertain. With only two remaining tram routes still operational and a future that hangs in the balance, there are concerns about the sustainability of the tram service. This reinforcement of the once popular public transport as only a mere ‘joy ride’ by now, has left tram supporters worried about preserving this iconic piece of Kolkata’s history.
While the 152nd birthday celebrations will certainly be a grand occasion, the question remains—how many more such anniversaries will the tram see? As the city gathers to honour the tram and celebrate its legacy, it is clear that trams in Kolkata are more than just a mode of transport. They are a cherished piece of the city's heritage, one that connects generations through shared memories. Today’s event serves as a reminder of the tram’s invaluable contribution to Kolkata’s cultural and transport history—and also as a poignant reflection on the challenges it faces in the modern world.
