Pedestrians and cyclists are set to travel more safely through Prague’s Žižkov Tunnel in the future. Following repeated complaints about dangerous situations and risky behaviour, the Prague 3 district is now preparing concrete measures together with several authorities to improve safety.
The tunnel, which serves as an important connection between the districts of Žižkov and Karlín, is used daily by large numbers of pedestrians and cyclists. In particular, the high speed of some cyclists has repeatedly led to conflicts and dangerous situations in the past.
Prague 3 had already begun discussions last autumn with the Technical Road Administration (TSK), the municipal police, the Police of the Czech Republic and other involved parties. The talks were prompted by repeated reports from residents as well as observations made directly on site.
“In the tunnel, pedestrians are in the weaker position, while cyclists are the stronger road users. Cyclists therefore need to ride slowly and considerately here so that nobody is put at risk,” said the Mayor of Prague 3, Michal Vronský.
As a first concrete measure, the TSK installed new traffic signs on Wednesday introducing a speed limit of 10 km/h. Compliance with the new regulation is set to be regularly monitored by both the police and the municipal police.
In addition, the lighting and visibility conditions inside the tunnel are to be improved. Together with the Technology Company of the City of Prague, the TSK is planning repairs and upgrades to the lighting, particularly in the area of the tunnel’s blind curve.
Further measures are already being prepared. Planned measures include so-called “optical brakes” — prominent markings such as “slow”, “brzdi” or “zpomal” painted directly onto the ground to encourage cyclists to reduce their speed. In the long term, physical speed bumps could also follow.
According to the district authority, the situation in the Žižkov Tunnel will continue to be monitored. If necessary, additional measures could be introduced. The aim is to make the tunnel safer and more considerate for all users.
