Kolkata's Iconic Trams To Make A Comeback: AC Streetcars, Battery Power & New Routes Planned

Last Updated:July 02, 2026, 06:33 IST

Beyond heritage preservation, the BJP-led Bengal government is positioning the tramway system as a crucial component of its clean mobility framework

Kolkata’s iconic streetcars, a defining symbol of the city’s cultural landscape since the late nineteenth century, seem poised for a significant modern resurrection. West Bengal Transport Minister Arjun Singh announced that the state government plans to reintroduce air-conditioned trams and establish new routes, reversing years of systemic decline. Speaking at an interactive session organised by the Merchants’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), the minister outlined a comprehensive strategy designed to modernise the urban transport network while preserving the city’s unique historical character. The state has officially commissioned RITES (Rail India Technical and Economic Service), a prominent public sector engineering consultancy, to conduct a rigorous feasibility study and submit a blueprint within thirty days. The primary objective is to restore the network to its former capacity, targeting the revival of nearly seventy traditional routes that were systematically scaled back or decommissioned by previous administrations.

Modern Infrastructure and Route Expansion

The planned revival introduces critical structural changes designed to mitigate urban congestion. Moving away from the traditional setup where tracks occupied the middle of the road, the government intends to lay new tracks along the left sides of thoroughfares. Furthermore, the modernised fleet will transition from conventional overhead electrical wires to an advanced battery-operated system, reducing the risks of accidents and streamlining the city’s visual landscape. A central highlight of the modernisation strategy is the extension of the network into emerging urban hubs and historical corridors. The proposed expansion includes introducing tram services to the planned township of New Town and the commercial hub of Salt Lake. To bolster regional tourism, the transport department is exploring an ambitious route to link two of the city’s most prominent religious landmarks—the Dakshineswar and Kalighat Kali temples—located on opposite sides of Kolkata. Additionally, iconic zones like College Street are slated to become vehicle-free areas, restricting access to trams, cycles, and battery-operated vehicles to create pedestrian-friendly spaces.

Economic and Environmental Sustainability

Beyond heritage preservation, the BJP-led West Bengal government is positioning the tramway system as a crucial component of its clean mobility framework. Characterised by officials as the city’s “original e-vehicles", trams are being prioritised for their high-capacity passenger dispersal capabilities and accessibility for elderly commuters. To ensure financial viability and support long-term operations, the state intends to explore public-private partnership (PPP) models. Under the proposed framework, private entities will secure advertising rights on the fleet and at major transit depots in exchange for a levy paid to the government. This modernisation drive forms part of a broader infrastructure overhaul, which includes adding 470 electric and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses to the state fleet by Durga Puja, alongside developments in inland waterway transport along the River Ganges.

About the Author

Pathikrit Sen Gupta

Pathikrit Sen Gupta is a Senior Associate Editor with News18.com and likes to cut a long story short. He writes sporadically on Politics, Sports, Global Affairs, Space, Entertainment, And Food. He tra...Read More

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