Reliving the thrill of a tram ride

THE thrill of riding a tram in Kolkata has been an enduring memory since my college days. For me, these rides were more than a means of transport — they captured the city’s rhythm and soul. Sadly, their nostalgic charm is now threatened by the West Bengal Government’s reluctance to continue the city’s 150-year-old tram service.

I vividly recall my first ride. It was late in the afternoon; the sun was casting long shadows over College Street and the air was filled with the chatter of book enthusiasts at footpath stalls. The tram rattled in slowly, its bell echoing with a steady clang. I climbed aboard, eager to experience what so many had described as a quintessentially Kolkata adventure. The gentle jolt as it started moving, the creak of its wooden floors and the open windows offering glimpses of the bustling city — it was a magical experience.

What set the trams apart from other modes of transport was their unhurried pace. In stark contrast to the honking cars and speeding buses, the tram glided along its tracks with a deliberate slowness, offering passengers a chance to pause and soak in the city’s sights and sounds. Whether it was the sprawling Maidan with its lush greenery or the heritage buildings of Esplanade, the view from a tram window had a cinematic quality. The ride was not about reaching a destination but savouring the journey itself.

The camaraderie among passengers was another aspect that made tram rides special. Strangers would strike up conversations, sharing stories about their lives, politics or the latest happenings in the city. There was a sense of community within those vintage carriages, a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds coming together under the rhythmic clang of the tram bell. For a shy college student like me, these interactions were enlightening and entertaining, offering a slice of life beyond the confines of textbooks and lectures.

Over the years, a tram trip became a cherished ritual. During Durga Puja, when the city donned its festive finery, I would take a ride through north Kolkata to marvel at the pandals and immerse myself in the celebratory spirit. On quieter days, the tram provided space for introspection as it meandered through rain-soaked streets, the sound of its wheels blending harmoniously with the pitter-patter of raindrops.

The trams are more than just a relic of the past; they are a living testament to Kolkata’s history, resilience and unique character. Discontinuing them is akin to erasing a vital chapter of the city’s story that holds memories for generations of its residents. It is heartening that the Calcutta High Court recently pulled up the state government over reports that tram tracks in the City of Joy were being removed or covered with bitumen while laying new roads.

For me and countless others, the clang of the tram bell will always echo as a reminder of a simpler, more soulful Kolkata — a city that thrived on its charm, history and the slow yet steady rhythm of its beloved trams.