In recent years, the proliferation of white and green plastic bollards, known as ballasts, on city roads has raised concerns among drivers and urban planners alike. Initially introduced as a temporary measure to deter traffic offenses and provide directional guidance, these bollards have become permanent fixtures in many areas. However, they often raise confusion and negatively impact the aesthetic appeal of urban landscapes. In response to these concerns, Prague is reportedly planning to halt the installation of such bollards.

Under the administration of the Technical Road Administration (TSK), Prague currently has 3,111 green and 496 white bollards on its roads. These figures, provided by TSK spokeswoman Barbora Lišková, may even be higher, as bollards can also be erected in places outside TSK’s purview, including city districts and private properties. This issue is not limited to Prague, as plastic bollards have become a common sight across various parts of the Czech Republic.

Martina Vacková, assistant to Deputy Mayor for Transport Zdeněk Hřib, indicated that the city has been moving away from using these ballasts in recent years. While they were once considered temporary safety measures, Prague is now opting for more subtle and visually discreet alternatives, especially in heritage zones and areas of historical significance.

Installing a single bollard costs approximately CZK 1,000 to CZK 1,200, excluding additional expenses such as anchors and labor costs. Given the numbers, TSK may have spent around CZK 7 million on the installation of these bollards. The decision to install them is usually influenced by inputs from traffic engineers and requests from the police.

According to Lišková, these plastic bollards are hollow and pose minimal danger or damage to vehicles in the event of a collision, as they are designed to deform upon impact. TSK installs them as temporary physical barriers to reinforce traffic signs and address instances where drivers disregard regulations, such as parking near pedestrian crossings.

However, the proliferation of bollards, cones, and other temporary markers can confuse drivers, leading to challenges in understanding road directions. Richard Gironi, the executive director of the Czech Automobile Club, acknowledges the potential for confusion but notes that similar issues occur with other temporary road modifications. Municipal traffic departments, often requiring approval from the Czech police, generally authorize the installation of such measures.

In conclusion, while these bollards aim to enhance road safety and discipline, the balance between their effectiveness and their impact on aesthetics and clarity remains a subject of ongoing debate. Prague’s move towards subtler alternatives underscores the city’s commitment to creating a harmonious urban environment that prioritizes both functionality and visual appeal.

Article by Prague Forum