horse-drawn tram service between Sealdah and Armenian Ghat. The
horse-drawn carriages made their entry into the public transport
system once the trams gained popularity. But the horse-drawn carriages
lived in
glory for only about a century. In 1899, a UK-based
company introduced two motorcars, both painted red, as the first
motor-driven taxis in the city. As they gained popularity, French
Motors started a taxi company in the city. Then, the Landmasters,
Fords and Buicks ruled the streets. After independence, Ambassadors
replaced all other vehicles.
But, I'm talking about the past and present of horse-drawn carriages
in Kolkata. In ancient Calcutta, horse-drawn carriages were the one
and only vehicle used by the baboos and common people. And even in the
decade of 80, more than 3,000 carriages (tangas) were running in
Kolkata. In the mid-60s, the government restricted its movement.
Tangas started plying like shuttle taxis on specific routes in North
Kolkata. The popular routes were between Howrah and Sealdah (via APC
Road). In the late 80s, the government ordered to stop about 3,000
carriages in city from operating as passenger vehicles. They allowed
to use public roads for special purposes like weddings only. And in
recent past, a few carriages were allowed to ply around Victoria
Memorial only.
But, finally they moved to Hastings to comply the High Court order.
The main objection was, horses and other motor vehicles used to
pollute the surroundings of Victoria Memorial and Maidan area. So, as
a result, the horses ousted and have to stay far from the Maidan
crowd. Hence, the tangawalas are losing passengers. But the scene was
different before April. The tourists often used to hire those tangas
for a joy ride around Maidan in exchange of nominal fare. It was
really a pleasure trip. And much towards the likeness of heritage of
the city.
The history of horse-drawn carriages in the city traced to the British
era when the roads were developed by renovating them from brick-dust
to cement and finally covered by coal tar, for the smooth run of these
carriages. In the year 1780-82, during the reign of Warren Hastings,
horse-drawn carriages made their first appearance in Kolkata. So, the
history of these carriages is as old as British Raj in Kolkata. But
now, they are past - part of mere nostalgia.--
A. B.
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