DPP Starts Construction of New Olšanská–Habrová Tram Connection

Prague is expanding its tram network with a new connection between Olšanská and Habrová. The route is intended primarily to provide better links between the growing districts of Žižkov and Jarov and the city centre.

Prague Public Transit Company (DPP) officially began construction of the new Olšanská–Habrová route on Monday. The 1.9-kilometre connection is intended primarily to provide better links between the development area around the former Žižkov freight railway station and the city centre.

The new route will have six stops and, according to the transport company, is set to enter service at the end of August 2027. Twelve months have been scheduled for the construction work. The cost amounts to around CZK 599.2 million. The project is being co-financed through the EU Transport Programme 2021–2027.

Photo: Dopravní podnik hlavního města Prahy

The actual work had already begun on Saturday, 29 August, at the junction of Olšanská and Jana Želivského. There, the new route will be connected to Prague’s existing tram network. The track layout at the junction is due to be completely rebuilt later this year.

From Olšanská, the new route runs through the site of the former Žižkov freight railway station, with stops at Nákladové nádraží Žižkov and Bernasova. Along this section, 68 trees are to be planted and rainwater collected to irrigate the grassed track.

From Bernasova, the route continues via Třebešín towards Jarov. Further stops are Vackov, Habrová and Jarov.

Photo: Dopravní podnik hlavního města Prahy

Final 600 Metres Initially Single-Track

The new route will be built as double track as far as Vackov. Around 100 metres beyond the stop, however, the tracks will merge. The final approximately 600 metres will initially be single-track and will largely use the existing infrastructure of the former railway line.

The Jarov terminus will be built near Osiková Street. A double-track turning facility with a central platform is planned there. In addition, a new staff building for tram drivers with a green roof will be constructed.

Photo: Dopravní podnik hlavního města Prahy

According to the planners, the initial single-track solution is mainly due to the future development of the area. In the long term, the new Jarovská Street is planned there in connection with the Prague City Ring Road. Once this project is implemented, the final section of the tram route is also expected to be upgraded to double track.

With the new connection, residents of the growing districts around Žižkov and Jarov are expected to be able to reach Prague city centre in around 15 minutes using direct tram services.