The Calcutta Tram's Restoration

The technical team of restorers in action.

The work began with the exterior body repair.In order to get back the smooth texture exterior sheet metal panels were replaced. Grinding is done on the wooden window frames to ensure smooth movement and replacement of glass fittings.

The roof getting ready to be repaired.

It will later be waterproofed and covered with an alloy sheet. The window restoration work is still under process. The layer above the windows will have fixed clear glass later

The damaged M.S Sheets on the exterior are replaced with the new ones to give the tram a revamp. The tricky task has been to restore the interior wooden body which entailed detailed repairs by skilled carpenters.

The damaged wooden pieces are removed from ceiling.

Reinforcement of joints along with laying of new electrical conduits is carried out.

The fixture of plywood on the side panels required each panel to be meticulously measured and placed. The elegant curved finish on the side panels was the expected end product.

The ceiling base nearing completion.

The driver's cab is repaired.

The devices which were used to operate the tram, like the controller and the brake system, are taken out for overhauling and repairs. The two front rods supporting the panels and roof are repaired and fixed back.

After restoring the wood work inside the cars, the exterior body is being prepared for paint work. Polishing work continues inside the cars.

The windows have been restored and installed. Brass safety rails have also been installed.

The interiors of the tram car after restoration provide a complete glimpse of the tireless heritage and a sense of priceless pride. It narrates its story through old archives in the form of pictures, tickets, maps, catalogs and old documentary movies