Prague 6 has implemented a significant change in its transportation landscape, but the solution to its traffic problems might still be years away. Since September, bus lanes on Evropská Street have been operating around the clock, a move that has sparked both praise and criticism from local residents.
The change, aimed at prioritizing public transport, has led to unexpected consequences. Long queues now form on Evropská Street, where buses must cross traffic twice to reach their stops. This has created a bottleneck effect, frustrating many drivers.
Local authorities argue that the measure has successfully shifted morning traffic away from residential areas in Dejvice and Bubeneč towards the Vltava River, achieving its primary goal. However, residents report that the congestion on Evropská Street has worsened, with queues lasting throughout the day.
The Regional Organizer of Prague Integrated Transport (ROPID) explains that the current layout, while not ideal, is the best compromise given the complex needs of various transport modes. Moving bus lanes to the left side of the road, for instance, would require buses to cross traffic five times instead of twice.
Experts agree that a long-term solution lies in the construction of a new railway line to Kladno, with a branch to the airport. This project, expected to be completed by 2030, would replace all city and regional bus services on Evropská Street, allowing for smoother traffic flow. Until then, Prague 6 residents and commuters will need to adapt to the new reality on one of the city’s busiest thoroughfares.