Rare Views of Madras Electric Trams, 1900 (3 Photos)

At the turn of the 20th century, electric trams were transforming urban transport in Madras (Chennai). Three rare photographs from around 1900 capture the early years of the Madras Electric Tramways during the British era. Possibly showing trial runs of new routes or recently introduced rolling stock.

The first image features a crowded tramcar bearing the destination board “No. 16 – Madras Electric Tramways Limited.” While the exact location remains uncertain. It may have been taken in prominent neighbourhoods such as Mylapore, First Line Beach, or Esplanade Road, areas that were central to the city’s commercial and residential life at the time.

The second photograph shows Tram No. 13 halted at a railway crossing, surrounded by a large gathering of curious onlookers. The scene reflects the public fascination with electric trams, which were still a modern innovation in Indian cities at the time.

The third image captures Tram No. 8, with “Triplicane” clearly marked on its sideboard, indicating one of the key routes served by the network.

Electric trams were introduced to Madras in 1895, marking a new phase in urban mobility. Earlier, horse-drawn trams had operated from 1874 in the city until their discontinuation in 1888. Although later described as a “dismal failure,” the horse tram system had functioned for 12 years before being replaced after a seven-year gap by electric traction.

The electric tramway went on to serve the city for nearly 58 years before being dismantled in 1953. Official reasons cited for its closure included mismanagement, trade union pressures, and political interference. With its removal, Madras bid farewell to one of its most iconic and charming public transport systems. An era that remains etched in the city’s transport history. Click first image to enlarge.