Prior to embarking on a special tram operated by the West Bengal Transport Department from Tollygunge to Ballygunge, covering a distance of approximately 5 km in the southern part of the city

The British delegation participating in the Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS) includes several companies with expertise in operating trams and other forms of environmentally friendly public transport. The UK envoy, Andrew Fleming, mentioned  on Monday that these companies are keen to contribute to the development of such a system in West Bengal.

The BGBS, West Bengal’s premier business summit, is set to commence on Tuesday. Fleming highlighted that trams are still operational in various cities across the UK, including South London.

 BGBS delegation comprises companies proficient in operating trams and other green modes of public transport. They are prepared to assist in facilitating the movement of people in the cities and towns of West Bengal ,  stated Fleming.

Prior to embarking on a special tram operated by the West Bengal Transport Department from Tollygunge to Ballygunge, covering a distance of approximately 5 km in the southern part of the city, Fleming emphasised that trams hold iconic status and serve as a heritage symbol of Kolkata.

In addition to transportation expertise, the British delegation includes climate experts and UK-based companies specialising in Net Zero initiatives, solar energy, sustainable urbanisation, clean mobility, air pollution control, and climate action.

An interactive session, or ‘Adda,’ was organised during the 50-minute tram ride between the UK delegation members and senior officials from the state’s transport department, including Secretary Soumitra Mohan.

Soumitra Mohan, speaking on the sidelines of the event, highlighted the historical significance of trams in Kolkata, dating back to their inception in 1873. He acknowledged the continuous operation of trams since 1880, evolving from horse-driven carriages to steam-driven and eventually electric modes.

Mohan emphasised that trams now represent the cleanest mode of transportation in the city. However, he acknowledged the need for a delicate balance in preserving this heritage while addressing the challenges posed by growing traffic, with tram tracks occasionally implicated in accidents, particularly involving two-wheelers.

During last month’s Durga Puja festival, the West Bengal Transport Department operated a special Puja Prakirama tram, showcasing the ongoing cultural significance of trams in Kolkata.