Tram, a photo from West Bengal, East

Photographer's Note

Calcutta is the only city in India that still has a tram service. The service dates from the 1870s, when it started with horse-drawn trams, which were followed by steam-driven trams. In 1900, the process of electrification began, and today, more than a hundred years later, Calcutta's trams still run on electricity.

The trams have their charm, despite being incredibly noisy -- the loud, grating noise they make is unmistakable, can give you a headache, and yet manages to signify a city determined to hold on to its character.

For more information, see the official website: http://www.calcuttatramways.com/home.htm

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sagar (2410) 2007-11-05 8:12

Hi Sanchia,
This is a good one. Not many people in India have seen the inside of a tram and you have shown them in a great way!! You are right in noting that these vehicles have their own charm, and I would like to add that apart from being noisy , they are slow too!So they fail to be the first choise of transportation un todays jet set age. However having said that I should add that trams probably surpass all other modes of transportation in romanticism. A tram ride on Maidan on a winter morning is an experiene of a lifetime.Add to that the pollution factor.
You have touched a very sensitive part of my loved elements of Kolkata.I would however suggest you to include a little more of the interior, which could probably do if you would stand in front of the door,(you knowwhat I mean.)
Thank you!!
Regards,
Sagarneel.

cmatesiu (104) 2009-01-20 16:57