In a significant step toward complete accessibility, Prague’s metro system has unveiled its 48th barrier-free station. The Radlická station on Line B now features a new elevator that can accommodate up to thirteen people and bear loads of up to 1,000 kilograms.
Completed just before the end of July after a ten-month construction period costing 62 million Czech crowns, this upgrade represents an important milestone in the city’s ongoing accessibility initiative. “Each newly accessible metro station means greater freedom of movement for wheelchair users, seniors, and parents with strollers,” said Zdeněk Hřib, Prague’s Deputy Mayor for Transportation.
The new elevator at Radlická implements a cost-effective compromise design compared to the originally considered placement in the existing fixed staircase. This approach allowed construction with minimal interference to the station’s supporting structures and the technological spaces beneath the platform where cable tunnels run.
Featuring a dual-door design, passengers enter through doors on one side and exit through doors on the opposite side. The upper station is embedded in the gallery wall in the vestibule, behind an artistic mosaic installed above the existing fixed staircase.
Looking ahead, Flora station on Line A will be the next to become barrier-free. The Prague Transport Company plans to begin construction work on its complete revitalization, including escalator replacement and elevator installation, this fall. The station will be temporarily closed next year due to these renovations.
Meanwhile, Staroměstská station, which was completely closed due to an escalator fire, has partially reopened. Currently, it functions as an exit-only station.