National Desk : Voice of Calcutta

Kolkata’s Iconic Tram Set for Modern Revival, New Route to Connect Kalighat and Dakshineswar

Kolkata’s iconic tram service, a symbol of the city’s rich heritage for over 150 years, is set to return in a modern and upgraded form. The West Bengal government has unveiled an ambitious plan to revive the historic transport system while integrating it with contemporary technology and urban needs.

As part of this initiative, a new tram route will connect two of the city’s most significant religious destinations—Kalighat Temple and Dakshineswar Kali Temple. This move is expected to ease travel for thousands of pilgrims and tourists while enhancing Kolkata’s cultural and tourism appeal.

Announcing the project at a business event in Park Street, State Transport Minister Arjun Singh stated that the new trams will be fully modern, air-conditioned, and powered by eco-friendly battery technology. The upgraded system aims to preserve the nostalgic charm of Kolkata’s trams while offering a comfortable and sustainable commuting experience.

Addressing long-standing concerns about traffic congestion, the government has proposed a new operational model where trams will run along the extreme left side of the road instead of the center. Fresh tram tracks will be laid accordingly to ensure smoother traffic flow and minimal disruption.

In addition to central Kolkata, the government is also exploring the expansion of tram services to planned urban areas such as Salt Lake, New Town, and Rajarhat. This signals a broader vision of integrating heritage transport into the city’s future mobility framework.

To assess feasibility and implementation, the central government agency RITES has been assigned to conduct a detailed survey. Preliminary studies have already begun, and further steps will depend on the findings.

Officials believe that this revival project will not only modernize public transport but also restore a timeless symbol of Kolkata’s identity. By blending tradition with innovation, the tram system is poised to once again become a defining feature of the City of Joy.

National Desk : Voice of Calcutta