The Prague Transportation Company (DPP) has approved the winning bid for the second section of the D Metro line. The successful consortium, led by Subterra, submitted a bid of approximately CZK 30 billion, excluding VAT. Despite the bid selection, the tender process was fraught with difficulties, including allegations of threats and improper practices.

DPP Director Petr Witowský described the tender process as highly competitive but marred by unacceptable practices, including pressure applied to members of the DPP’s board, supervisory board, and the Prague City Council. Even members of the evaluation committee reported receiving threats from fictitious email addresses. As a result, the DPP is contemplating further legal action to address these issues.

The Subterra-led consortium was one of three bidders in the tender process, alongside Porr and Strabag. Porr was excluded from consideration due to significant deficiencies in their bid. The antitrust authority is currently examining the tender after canceling it in mid-July due to bid conditions. The DPP has appealed the decision, but until a final ruling is reached, it cannot sign a contract with the winning bidder.

The controversies surrounding the tender process have raised concerns about transparency and fairness, which the DPP will need to address in the future. While Subterra’s consortium secured the contract, the allegations of improper practices and threats have left a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the Metro D line project, which is crucial for improving Prague’s transportation infrastructure. The DPP and relevant authorities must work diligently to ensure the tender process and subsequent construction proceed without further issues and in a transparent, fair manner.

Article by Prague Forum