Quiet traffic, less noise, better conditions for urban public transport and theoretically also higher safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Restrictions on entry to the center of Prague have been talked about for a long time, but politicians have yet to find a common solution. But as seen, one is now showing up. And instead of a total ban on passing through, it should be a matter of charging a certain section for everyone driving through the heart of the Czech metropolis. Residents are no exception.

The new plan to charge an entrance fee to the historic center of Prague, which will take effect from next year, was announced yesterday by the deputy mayor of transport Zdeněk Hřib (Pirate) and mayor of the first city district, Terezie Radoměřská (TOP 09) . This is primarily meant to ease traffic, or to prevent the often unnecessary transit, which could be accomplished in different ways. Hřib said he would monitor the new measures “same goal as a total ban, just a bit gentler”.

In practice, this may mean that those who just want to go through the capital’s historic center will have to pay. It’s not yet clear how many pieces will be possible. Likewise, it has not yet been determined which areas will be of particular concern. And enforcement, which is considered Radoměřská, must also be completed “fundamental” and it has to happen “total, careful and uncompromising control”.

The introduction of the new rules will still be discussed by the city council. While the plan may seem logical, useful and popular in a number of other European capital cities, it may have certain negative effects on transportation. However, Hřib confirmed in Wednesday’s debate that there would be none “calamity apocalypse”How States CT24.

One of the big advantages of this measure is the better availability of urban public transport. It is not at all uncommon that a center overwhelmed with traffic slows down trams, which then increases delays, which are funneled throughout the network. This also comes with a reduction in traffic in general – it will reduce road noise and potentially keep people safer.

However, it should be noted that entry fees should not affect residents at all – they will be checked using cameras connected to the parking permit database. After all, the topic of parking was also raised in the debate. In particular, the management of Prague 1 promotes that only residents can stand in the blue zone in the center.

It is also about adjusting the paid parking zone system, which according to Hřib’s idea should also bring more parking spaces to local residents. If all goes according to plan, this too could go into effect as early as 2024.