The Prague Zoo’s ambitious Arctic project, with an estimated cost of 1.2 billion korunas, is facing public criticism, but city officials remain steadfast in their commitment to the initiative. Despite calls for reconsideration, Antonín Klecanda, the city councilor for education, defends the project, arguing that the funds could be used more efficiently by shortening Metro Line D rather than abandoning the “bear den.”

The budgetary climate, as noted by former head of Transparency International, David Ondráčka, is described as absurd, with billions required for new schools, particularly as over seven thousand children from other regions attend middle schools in Prague. Ondráčka suggests that instead of reevaluating the Arctic project, reconsidering the Metro D extension, which costs significantly more and is deemed unnecessary, would be a more strategic use of funds.

City councilor Antonín Klecanda justifies the construction of the enclosure by citing similar facilities for bears in zoos abroad. He contends that redirecting the Metro Line D to end in Libuš and proceeding with the bear den project would result in substantial savings.

Support for the new bear pavilion project comes from Pirate councilor Jana Komrsková, emphasizing that the commitment to the project was made in 2017 under the Adriana Krnáčová council, and it possesses a valid building permit.

While the project has its advocates, vocal critics are numerous, demanding greater fiscal responsibility and the redirection of funds to more strategic areas. The ongoing debate over the “billion for a bear den” reflects broader questions about the allocation and priorities of public funds. As the controversy continues, the city faces decisions on balancing public sentiment, financial prudence, and strategic investment.

Article by Prague Forum