Commencing December 10, Prague’s iconic Výton Bridge, a cultural monument dating back to 1900-1901, will witness a significant reduction in train services due to deteriorating conditions. The alterations, coinciding with the new timetable, will impact thousands of commuters, with trains from Beroun no longer reaching the central station but concluding their journey at Smíchov.

The Railway Administration (SŽ) expresses interest in constructing a new bridge, citing the challenges posed by the current structure’s condition. However, this proposition has sparked contention, with heritage conservationists and civic associations advocating for the preservation of the historic bridge.

The modified service plan will notably impact the trains of line S7 on the Prague central station – Prague Radotín – Řevnice route, terminating at Smíchov instead. Approximately 59 daily connections will be affected by this change. However, essential S7 trains on the Prague-Beroun route will continue operating over the Výton Bridge.

Starting December 10, the Výton Bridge will accommodate only one train at a time, resulting in a 50% reduction in speed, from 40 km/h to 20 km/h. The overall intensity of railway traffic will decrease by about two-thirds, leading to a considerable reduction in train frequency and virtually eliminating freight train usage on the bridge.

The debate surrounding the fate of the Výton Bridge has persisted for years, with conflicting opinions on whether to replace or renovate the structure. Bridge engineering experts, evaluating various options, advocate for the construction of a new three-track bridge, aligning with a proposal from an international architectural competition. This approach addresses contemporary safety and traffic capacity requirements, ensures public transport continuity, offers comfort for pedestrians and cyclists, and harmonizes with the city’s panorama.

According to a study by the international expert organization Jaspers, constructing a new bridge would be 40% more cost-effective and 1.5 years faster than renovating the existing one. Additionally, the new bridge is projected to have a lifespan of at least 100 years, compared to the 30-year expectancy of a renovated bridge. The ongoing infrastructure debate underscores the delicate balance between preserving historical landmarks and adapting to contemporary transportation needs.

Article by Prague Forum