Tram death knell leads to citizens’ protest at Shyambazar depot
Times of India | 27 September 2024
Kolkata: Braving heavy rain, hundreds of tram enthusiasts gathered at the Shyambazar tram depot on Thursday to protest against the govt’s proposal to dismantle the city’s tramway system — the first protest since the transport minister announced the proposal. The protest was organized by the Calcutta Tram Users Association (CTUA), which has been vocal in its opposition to the phasing out of trams from Kolkata’s streets.
“We were overwhelmed by the response. People from all walks of life joined us spontaneously. We also held a brief march, taking care to adhere to the prohibitory orders issued by the Kolkata Police,” said Debasish Bhattacharya, president of CTUA.
The protest reflects growing public discontent over the proposed abolition of Kolkata’s historic tram network, which has been a part of the city’s heritage for over 150 years. Despite declining tram services and limited routes in recent years, many locals view trams as an eco-friendly and nostalgic mode of transport. The protesters are urging the govt to reconsider its decision and invest in upgrading the tram system instead.
The tram lovers have already moved the Calcutta High Court, which had ordered the state to work out on a blueprint for the restoration, preservation and maintenance of the city’s tramway. “We, thus, strongly feel that an announcement of the abolition of trams is a clear case of contempt of court,” said Pradeep Kakkar of PUBLIC.