Czech Republic’s Ministry of Transport and Správa Železnic (SŽ) have unveiled plans to build two underground railway tunnels in Prague to advance transport infrastructure in the capital city.
Established in 2003, SŽ is a state-owned entity responsible for the operation, maintenance, and modernisation of the railway network in the Czech Republic.
The two tunnels, set to stretch 10.6km, are expected to enhance Prague’s train capacity, decongest public transport, and integrate regional connectivity.
The first tunnel will run north-to-south, starting at a new partially covered station at the Florenc metro interchange, connecting to the junction near Smíchov and Vršovice.
The second, northeast-to-southwest tunnel will run from a new underground station at Karlín to Smíchov, with stops at Václavské náměstí and Karolovo náměstí.
Both tunnels will meet at a two-storey underground interchange beneath Prague Hlavní nádraží, facilitating train transfers and reducing congestion in the city centre.
Each tunnel will accommodate 16 trains per hour per direction, enhancing passenger movement and operational efficiency.
The project is part of the Czech Republic’s most ambitious rail investments, with an estimated cost of CZK185bn ($7.7bn), and is expected to be completed by 2047.
Prague transport head Zdeněk Hřib said: “The rail tunnels will not only boost train capacity but also relieve overcrowding on metro, tram, and bus routes.
“The project brings new rail capacities right in the city centre, including several stops that will shorten the walking distance for passengers.
“The result will not only be a higher attractiveness of rail transport but also the relief of the busiest public transport sections in the centre. The enhanced railway will also attract some traffic from the roads.”
The project would reduce the congestion of Prague’s public transport system, improve train connectivity, enhance travel times, and provide sustainable alternatives to road-based travel.
The new underground stations will be strategically positioned to reduce walking distances and improve passenger access.
Florenc Metro Interchange will enhance the connection between the new tunnels and Prague’s metro, while Karlín Station will serve the northeast-to-southwest corridor.
Václavské náměstí and Karolovo náměstí will enhance access to key commercial and cultural districts, and Smíchov Station will facilitate regional and long-distance travel.
Also, the project is expected to deliver economic benefits, including reduced road congestion, increased railway capacity, job creation, and environmental sustainability.
The tunnelling works are scheduled to begin in 2035 and be completed in 2047.
Prague’s transport authorities would finalise construction plans, secure funding and approvals, conduct environmental studies, and collaborate with European transport networks.
Praha deputy mayor Petr Hlaváček said: “The biggest transport problem in Praha is not transport in Praha itself, but in the metropolitan region.
“Praha’s modal split is highly in favour of public transport, but what is crushing Praha is regional transport, where the supply and capacity are insufficient.”
SŽ construction planning department director Pavel Paidar said: “The new routes will help separate long-distance and regional transport. This will maintain the comfort of travel, while also having a minimal impact on the environment.”
