After a hiatus of nearly a decade, Kolkata’s iconic trams are all set to make a grand return during this year’s Durga Puja celebrations, promising an exciting and eco-friendly mode of transportation for pandal hopping. State Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty recently announced the revival of tram services during the festive season, much to the delight of locals and tourists alike.
In previous years, Kolkata’s traffic police had requested the suspension of tram operations to ease traffic congestion during Durga Puja. However, this year is special as it marks the 150th anniversary of Kolkata’s tram network, which is not only India’s sole surviving green transport system but also Asia’s oldest eco-friendly mass transit system.
The decision to reintroduce trams into the festivities was prompted by their recognition as UNESCO Intangible Heritage, emphasizing the deep cultural and historical connection between trams and Durga Puja. Despite certain limitations in the tram network, two routes have been selected for this year’s celebrations: Esplanade-Shyambazar and Esplanade-Gariahat-Esplanade. Air-conditioned trams will operate from 10 AM on Saptami, Ashtami, and Nabami.
Kolkata trams will be specially decorated to create a festive ambiance, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional dhaak drums. Passengers will have the opportunity to soak in the vibrant festive atmosphere and capture memorable moments through the large glass windows. To enhance the experience, dedicated guides will be on board to assist travelers in exploring various Durga Puja pandals along the routes.
The tram routes will cover popular pandals such as those on Kashi Bose Lane, Nalini Sarkar Street, Hati Bagan, Singhi Park, and Ekdalia. The fare for this unique tram experience will be INR 600 per person, which includes tea and snacks. Travelers can conveniently book their tickets online to secure their spots.
In addition to the tram rides, the transport department has organized Puja Parikrama, a tour that will take visitors to aristocratic homes in Kolkata, including Badan Chandra Roy’s home, Belur Math, Bagbazar Halder Bari, Sovabazar Rajbari, Behala Roy Bari, Chhatubabu-Latubabur Bari, Behala Sonar Durga Bari, and Sabarna family house in Barisha. This service is available at INR 1,900 per head and covers lunch, evening snacks, and tea. Moreover, WBTC (West Bengal Transport Corporation) will arrange trips to Dhanyakuria-Arbalia and Kamar Pukur-Jairambati.
For those looking for an alternative to congested roads, the transport department will also run vessels on the Hooghly river, offering leisure rides from the north to the south of Kolkata. This option allows travelers to visit their preferred Durga Puja pandals with ease and enjoy the scenic beauty along the river.
The return of Kolkata trams for Durga Puja is not only a practical transportation solution but also a nostalgic and cultural revival that will add a touch of old-world charm to the festivities.