West Bengal sets 29-day deadline for RITES to map tram revival in Kolkata
GS1History · Society · Geography· Heritage sites, UNESCO & GI tags· Prelims·
Why in news
The West Bengal government tasked RITES to map a restoration plan for 70 former tram routes in Kolkata to modernize the city's iconic transport system.
Background
The West Bengal government has mandated RITES (Rail India Technical Services Ltd) to complete a restoration map within 29 days. The plan includes modernizing coaches, introducing air-conditioned trams, and expanding routes to Salt Lake and New Town.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyRITES: A Mini Ratna Category-I Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Railways.
- PlaceKolkata: The only city in India that still operates a tram network.
- FactThe restoration plan covers nearly 70 former tram routes in the Kolkata metropolitan area.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of preserving heritage transport systems like Kolkata's trams in the context of sustainable urban mobility and cultural identity.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Urban mobility trade-off: Balancing the preservation of slow-moving heritage trams with the need for high-speed mass transit.
- Heritage branding: Leveraging UNESCO recognition to boost cultural tourism and city branding.
- Infrastructure integration: Challenges in retrofitting modern air-conditioned coaches into existing legacy tram tracks.
Keywords: Sustainable Urban Mobility · Heritage Conservation · Public Transport Infrastructure · Urban Planning · Cultural Identity
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