Tuesday, June 2, 2009

T is for making Tracks (for Trams) in ABC Wedneday

Bergen once had trams. However, as cars and buses became fashionable, the trams had to go. They blocked the way for "progress" (whatever that may be). On the last day of December 1965 it was all over.

But time moves on. Bergen has a small town centre, but a fairly large surrounding area. There is only room for so many cars in that centre and everyone can't be on those same roads at the same time. Bergen has tried to build itself out of such a crisis before. It did not work. It has finally dawned on the majority that a more modern form for public transport is necessary. Hence the new tram system that is now being built. Against the fierce opposition from the "progressives" (or more correctly, the extreme right-wing) with their SUVs, the building has started and the first stretch will open next year.

The picture above shows part of the first finished 500 meters.

It is of course difficult work, but the Tracks may last for a 100 years.

Here the Tracks have not yet been laid down. BTW, the building to the left is Bergen Railway Station - more Tracks.

The some may say - "You already have both Tracks and Trams!" That is quite correct: Enthusiasts at Bergen Technical Museum are maintaining a small stretch with some old trams bought from Germany (they were used in the old East Berlin). They plan to open one of the old tram-lines some time in the future for use by tourists etc.


Today's post is an entry in the fourth round of ABC Wednesday, the meme initiated by Denise Nesbitt.


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