Kolkata, October 15, 2023: In a remarkable initiative to promote sustainable mobility and eco-friendly celebrations, Tramjatra and Calcutta Tram Users Association in collaboration with Calcutta Heritage Collective (CHC), Mritika Earthy Talks Foundation, SwitchON Foundation and WICCI (West Bengal Council for Climate Action), organized a special Tram Jatra called “Tilottama Tramjatra” to embrace a greener future. Organized with the intent to spread awareness about sustainable transportation and the UNESCO Heritage tag associated with Durga Puja, this event is a precursor to a sustainable Durga Puja celebration.

Mr. G.M. Kapur, Head of INTACH Kolkata chapter, and Film Maker Raja Sengraced the occasion at the Gariahat Tram Depot. The special tram journey was attended by young stars(physically challenged people) of Voice of world and many eminent citizens of Kolkata. The journey began  from the Gariahat Tram Depot and went up to Esplanade tram terminus and finally reached Shyambazar and came back to Gariahat via Esplanade to complete its journey. The Tram Jatra brought together people from all walks of life, highlighting the importance of eco-friendly transportation. Participants, including enthusiastic children, passionate environmentalists, and the vibrant community, embarked on a unique journey through the city, demonstrating their commitment to sustainable mobility.

Smt  Sangeeta Dudhoria, Founder Trustee- CHC said ,”Trams are an indelible part of my childhood memories. Hours would pass by watching the maze of tram tracks and the chugging tram cars from my window. Innumerable tram rides to New Market, Park Street and AJC Bose Road used to be so much fun. It was considered the safest mode of transportation.Calcutta being one of the few cities in the world to still has trams, I am very happy that stupendous efforts of Mr. Rajanvir Singh Kapur (IAS) , Managing Director, West Bengal Transport Corporation, Govt. of West Bengal in reviving and saving this lovely heritage of our beloved city. I am glad to collaborate with Mrittika Earthy Talks, Switch On Foundation and Tramjatra as the ethos of sustainability and preserving the rich heritage of Calcutta aligns well with our mission of conservation of built heritage.I was looking forward to Sunday’s tram ride – probably after 30 odd years.”.

Trams are not just a mode of transportation; they are an integral part of Kolkata’s heritage. Trams have witnessed the city’s history and growth, and it’s crucial to keep this iconic symbol alive. The trams serve as a testament to Kolkata’s rich heritage while contributing to its sustainable mobility goals in the modern era. Mr. GM kapur talked about the iconic places of kolkata that the tram through which the tram was traveling.

Mr GM Kapur Head of INTACH Kolkata chapter said,” Kolkata’s tramways biggest contribution is to the health of the citizens. Trams help us to breathe easier. If not for any other reason, for this reason alone we must preserve our trams and ensure they keep running and we continue to celebrate Kolkata Tramways.”

A sustainable transportation system that is cost-effective, accessible, efficient, and resilient is necessary today in order to reduce environmental impact caused by carbon and other emissions. The transport sector is responsible for 13.5% of the country’s energy-related CO2 emissions. To meet the increase in global average temp to 1.5°C, and global CO2 emissions, we need to reach net zero by 2050 (UNFCCC). By 2050, rates of electrification in the rail and road-focused scenarios will be close to 100%.

At the event Mahadeb Shi, Documentary Film Director, Tramjatra Co founder and Secretary of CTUA,”In light of concerns about climate change, the tram has evolved into more than just a sentimental icon for Kolkata; it is now a crucial part of the sustainability of the city. The Indian subcontinent is one of the world’s areas that is most sensitive to a variety of direct and indirect effects of climate change. If precautions are not followed, Dhaka and Kolkata might be flooded by sea water after thirty years, according to an international forecast. I have faith that WBTC will change its mind and start modernizing the tram system. We would keep up our campaigns to dispel the false notion that trams are slow and cause congestion. We also need to stop using personal vehicles and move to trams, Electric vehicals, cycling, walking. The tram and the Durga pooja are two of Kolkata’s most recognizable icons. What better way to honor Durgapooja than by taking the tram? Today’s Tramjatra is very special since it involves a group of physically challenged youth of Voice of World, who want to celebrate life by riding the tram around the Durgapooja. If WBTC could offer frequent tram service during Doorgapooja, that would be fantastic. 

Smt Somini Sen Dua, Founder Director of Mritika Earthy Talks and  State President , WICCI West Bengal  Climate Action Council said , “I am so glad to have so many first timers on board in our first endeavor to have a group of people concerned and care about Kolkata’s heritage and it’s future. As a person concerned about the environment  , trams have minimal sound pollution. Let us ease our pace, sit back and enjoy this city of my birth .#PrakritipujoPraanerpujo is complete now.”

Kolkata is also now the 2nd most air polluted city in the world with high to extreme carbon emissions emanating from the transport sector with increased risk of lung related illness and premature death on the rise. Air and carbon pollution have increased from moderate to high and deadly levels as tramways have been downgraded and trams routes have been closed. Trams are not just known for their heritage and iconic value, but they also constitute an emission-free public transport system. Therefore there is a need to integrate modern tram systems and sustainable modes of transport into the mobility system.

The event not only raised awareness but also set the stage for an eco-conscious Durga Puja celebration. Participants pledged to embrace sustainable mobility during the festive season, reducing their carbon footprint and ensuring cleaner air for all. 

Mr. Vinay Jaju, Managing Director, SwitchON Foundation said, “Trams play a pivotal role in urban connectivity and accessibility along with being a sustainable mode of transportation. This will definitely pave the way for this year’s sustainable and eco-friendly Durga Puja celebration.”

Media Dossier

Contact: Vinay Jaju | M: +91 9331178105 | Email: VJ@SwitchON.org.in