Public transport fares between Prague and the Central Bohemian Region are set to increase next year. The proposed hike, recommended by the Central Bohemian Region council, aims to address escalating operational costs. The plan suggests a 30 percent increase for paper tickets and a 20 percent increase for electronic tickets, with the objective of enhancing the financial sustainability of the Prague Integrated Transport system amidst mounting expenses and shrinking revenue coverage.
The Central Bohemian Region emphasized the necessity of adjusting fares to accommodate the escalating costs of public transport services. With expenses projected to rise to CZK 5.2 billion in 2026, representing a 13 percent increase from the previous year, the revenue from fares covering costs has decreased to 29.1 percent in 2025. Petr Borecký, the regional councillor overseeing public transport and mobility, highlighted the need for fare adjustments to sustain high-quality and reliable transport services.
Under the proposed fare increase, a 30-minute paper ticket for three tariff zones, commonly used for trips between Prague and neighboring areas, would see a price rise. The region’s initiative also introduces adjustments for monthly and annual season tickets, with the aim of encouraging passengers to opt for digital ticketing services. The proposal includes new ticket products like group fares and first-class supplements on specific train lines, in addition to plans for an automatic fare adjustment mechanism aligned with inflation.
The anticipated fare increases in Prague and the Central Bohemian Region are subject to approval by regional assemblies in early June. If approved, the new fares could take effect from January 1, 2026. The proposed adjustments aim to generate approximately CZK 375 million annually, with the goal of maintaining fare revenues contributing to about 35 percent of operating costs.
While the discussion on the proposed fare increases continues, it is evident that the public transport sector faces financial challenges that necessitate strategic pricing decisions to sustain and enhance services. The move towards digital ticketing and the introduction of new ticketing options reflect efforts to modernize and optimize the transport system to meet the evolving needs of passengers.
As cities grapple with the complexities of balancing operational costs, revenue generation, and service quality in public transport, the fare increase proposal in Prague and the Central Bohemian Region underscores the ongoing efforts to ensure the long-term viability and efficiency of public transportation systems.
📰 Related Articles
- Brisbane Ranks 2nd Globally in Cost of Living Index Due to Ultra-Cheap Public Transport
- Why invest in Platinum? Insights from Raymond James Financial Inc. and Sprott Inc.
- Why Shanghai Stock Exchange is Key to China’s Global Financial Ambitions
- UK Universities Urged to Enhance Financial Transparency Amid Sector Challenges
- The Blockchain Group Bolsters Bitcoin Strategy with EUR 9.9M Capital Increase