Inaugurated in 2014, the Kolkata Tram Musuem, Smaranika, is a refurbished, vintage 1938 tram, whose interiors have been renovated to serve the purpose of a museum that showcases rare and interesting tram memorabilia, ranging from the early days of the mode of transportation to the present. The collection includes rare photos of old Calcutta streets, replicas of the earliest trams like horse-drawn tram cars, omnibus, flat wagon trams, watering trams and more. Other exhibits include old tram passes and coupons, coin-exchanger machine, uniforms and caps used by the conductors and various tram parts like red lamp, governor switch, pull-off springs and more. One would also find displays of newspaper cuttings and pamphlets of various festivals around the world celebrating tram journeys and posters glorifying trams of Kolkata in literature. The entry tickets to the museum are also designed as tram tickets, keeping with the museum’s theme.
22.565054311224, 88.350283205509
Overview of inner museum gallery
Information boards showing chronology of trams and its developments through the ages
A tram is powered by electric motors. The speed generated in a tram is obtained by varying the current sent to the motors through the controller. The handle in the top cover of the controller is controlled by the driver.
Exhibit showing armlets, tassels and nippers used by tram conductors. Armlets were worn over the uniform, and the number of stripes indicated seniority. Tassels were worn on uniform by the Head Durwan deployed at the main gate and in front of the agent's chamber. A nipper was used for punching tickets in order to prevent re-use.
Truck frame accommodates the suspension system, traction motors, wheel and axle required to provide the power for tram movement and the compartments are placed on this frame. Whenever a tram-line has to cross another, a crossing is provided so that tram wheels can easily roll in required directions automatically.
A red lamp is used during maintenance of tram at night as an indicator in order to ensure safety.
A coin exchange machine was used by the conductors while they were on duty. As per requirement, specific denomination of coins came out from the machine when the conductor pressed the necessary knob.
Various kinds of special tickets like all-day tickets, monthly passes for students, special concession coupons, workman's coupon, etc., are exhibited here.
The Calcutta Tramways Company (CTC) inaugurated its experimental Bus Service in 1920 with a Thornycrfot and Company-manufactured small, single deck 25-HP bus, the service being from Park Circus to Pantoon Ferry. It was discontinued in 1925.
Replica showing luxury single body AC tram car which was manufactured at the company's Nonapukur workshop and was inaugurated on June 2013. It now offers joy rides to tourists regularly covering different historical points and is equipped with full-fledged pantry system, centrally-operated door, LED illumination, transparent rooftop and windows for clear vision of outside scenery.