The Prague-Kladno rapid transit is blocked by a lack of funding

Prague - The construction of the rapid transit line between Prague and Kladno, which would allow easier travel for residents of the largest Central Bohemian city to the metropolis for work, is being blocked by a lack of funds. According to Deputy Governor Robin Povšík (ČSSD), the region does not intend to accept this and will negotiate with the Ministry of Transport on how to reduce the cost of the entire project. He claims that it would be possible to save up to ten billion crowns. However, Ministry of Transport spokesman Karel Hanzelka told ČTK today that even with such savings, it would still not be possible to build the rapid transit line.
    "The rapid transit project is currently on hold, not completely dormant, but various solution options are being explored," Hanzelka stated. The government had previously banned the initiation of any new constructions, and the budget for transportation projects is tight.
    The construction, according to the original requirements, could ultimately cost up to 45 billion crowns, but Povšík believes it could be significantly reduced. "It may be necessary to reassess some existing requirements, especially those concerning Prague, such as the deepening and covering of the entire track," he indicated. If the ministry, in cooperation with designers, made a strong effort, it could potentially reduce this amount by up to ten billion crowns, he believes.
    Hanzelka stated that the ministry is open to discussions about reworking the project; for example, instead of a double-track line, a single-track line could be constructed. "Primarily, what we are encountering is a lack of financial resources, which means that even if it were reduced by ten billion, it would still be around 35 billion - and that is money we simply do not have at the moment," he added.
    The current railway connection between Prague and Kladno is generally considered inadequate. Over 20,000 people commute daily from Kladno and the surrounding area to Prague for work. The rapid transit line with a branch to Václav Havel Airport was supposed to facilitate their travel. The project has also been discussed for some time because Prague still does not have a satisfactory connection between the city center and the airport.