New Railway Tunnel to Cut Prague to Pilsen Journey to 45 Minutes

The Czech government has approved the next phase of one of its largest railway infrastructure projects: a new tunnel connecting Prague and Beroun. Construction is expected to begin in 2032, with completion scheduled for 2044. The 24.7-kilometre double-track tunnel will significantly shorten travel times on one of the country’s busiest rail corridors. Once completed, trains will travel between Prague-Smíchov station and Beroun in around 13 minutes, reducing the current journey time by more than 30 minutes. The project will also improve connections towards western Czechia and neighbouring Germany. The journey from Prague to Pilsen is expected to take approximately 45 minutes, while international rail services to Munich and Nuremberg will become faster and more reliable. New railway line designed for speeds of up to 200 km/h The planned railway route will include a new high-speed section designed for trains travelling at up to 200 km/h. The tunnel will begin near Prague-Smíchov station, pass beneath the Barrandov area, and emerge near Beroun. A separate connection on the Prague side is also planned, linking the new line with Braník Bridge and Prague-Krč. The additional infrastructure will improve connections within the capital while increasing capacity on the wider railway network. Construction preparation underway Preparatory work for the tunnel is already in progress. Geological surveys and technical documentation are currently being completed, with the application for a construction permit expected to be submitted between 2028 and 2029. After the approval process, Správa železnic will launch a tender to select the construction company responsible for building the tunnel. The Czech Railway Administration estimates the total cost of the project will continue to rise due to inflation and increasing construction expenses. However, its director general Tomáš Tóth said the estimated cost of around CZK 3 billion per kilometre remains comparable with similar railway tunnel projects abroad. The project is expected to increase railway capacity towards western Czechia, improve timetable reliability, and strengthen connections between Prague, Pilsen, and major German cities.   Would you like us to write about your business? Find out more The post New Railway Tunnel to Cut Prague to Pilsen Journey to 45 Minutes appeared first on Prague Morning.