Czech railway infrastructure and service developments

The Czech Republic is advancing significant railway infrastructure and service developments in the Prague and Central Bohemian regions.

Initial developments focused on urban planning, with the Czech government approving the Partial Territorial Development Plan for the Prague high-speed rail project. This plan establishes corridors for high-speed tracks and includes the Jahodnická connection to facilitate freight transit. Additionally, preparations began for a new Park and Ride facility near the Horní Měcholupy train stop to integrate technical infrastructure and renewable energy.

Following these planning milestones, Czech Railways (České dráhy) secured a historic 165.17 billion CZK contract to operate regional services for 30 years starting in 2030. The agreement, co-financed equally by the City of Prague and the Central Bohemian Region, necessitates the procurement of at least 60 high-capacity EMU 400 electric train sets.

The tender process has faced significant scrutiny. While Škoda Group was selected as the vehicle supplier with a bid of 36.39 billion CZK, the decision is currently being challenged by Stadler Rail at the Office for the Protection of Competition (ÚOHS). Furthermore, the Fair Rail association has raised concerns regarding the final price being higher than initial estimates and the “unusually long 30-year contract duration.” However, some reports indicate that the final figures include inflation adjustments intended to cover the three-decade period. The finalization of the agreement remains subject to the conclusion of the ÚOHS proceedings regarding the train manufacturer.