On January 1st of next year, Prague plans to implement a daily fee of 200 Czech koruna (about $9 USD) for drivers entering certain parts of the city center. The measure aims to reduce traffic and prevent delays to public transportation caused by congestion. However, the plan faces opposition from several sources, including some political leaders and neighboring districts.
The proposal would affect certain areas of the historic center of Prague, including parts of Malá Strana and Smetanovo nábřeží. Residents and local entrepreneurs would be exempt from the fee, but other drivers would be charged. The plan has been developed by Prague 1 and Deputy Mayor Zdeněk Hřib of the Pirate Party.
Opponents of the measure argue that it is unrealistic and impractical; some have even called it a “populist outcry.” Critics point out that many city officials, including Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda, have expressed disagreement with the proposal. Some suggest that alternative solutions, such as expanding parking zones, would be more effective.
The plan has also faced opposition from neighboring districts, including Prague 2 and Prague 6. Officials from these districts have expressed concern that the traffic fee would increase congestion on already-busy roads and cause delays for residents and commuters.
Despite the opposition, proponents of the measure argue that it is necessary to address the problem of traffic congestion in the city center. According to Deputy Mayor Hřib, the fee is required to reduce unnecessary traffic and ensure the smooth operation of public transportation. He points out that several other European cities have successfully implemented similar fees.
The proposal is still under review and has not been approved by city officials. Whether the measure will be implemented as planned on January 1st remains to be seen. Meanwhile, the debate over the traffic fee continues among city officials and residents alike.