Number of Deaths on Czech Railway Tracks Falls by 20 Percent
Fewer suicides are a major factor in the decline – new prevention campaign raises awareness of support services at railway stations and along railway lines
Photo: Ministerstvo dopravy ČR
The number of deaths on Czech railway tracks fell significantly in the first nine months of the year. A substantial part of this decline is due to a reduction in suicides. The prevention campaign “Nááádech, výýýdech” aims to raise awareness of available support services among people experiencing mental health crises.
From January to the end of September 2026, a total of 129 people lost their lives on railway tracks in the Czech Republic. During the same period last year, there were 161 deaths. This represents a decline of around 20 percent. According to the Ministry of Transport, the figures so far show the lowest number of deaths in the past five years.
Suicides continue to account for the largest proportion of fatal incidents. Transport Minister Ivan Bednárik therefore emphasises the importance of prevention and early support for people facing difficult life circumstances. A suicide attempt on railway tracks can also result in serious injuries and permanent health consequences. To prevent such tragedies, cooperation with mental health organisations is being further expanded.
New Prevention Campaign Launched
To mark World Mental Health Day on 10 October, a new phase of the “Nááádech, výýýdech” campaign was launched. It aims to raise awareness of existing support services at dozens of railway stations and on social media, encouraging people to seek help during difficult times.
The autumn campaign was developed in cooperation with the National Institute of Mental Health (Národní ústav duševního zdraví), the organisation Cesta z krize and the association Nepanikař.
Photo: Drážní úřad
Alongside the Czech Republic's free mental health helpline on 116 123, the “Nepanikař” app is also being promoted. Developed in the Czech Republic and recognised with several awards, the app is aimed particularly at young people and offers support in dealing with panic attacks and other mental health difficulties.
The first information signs were installed at particularly high-risk locations along railway lines as part of the campaign in the spring. Additional signs displaying the mental health crisis helpline number are now to be installed at dozens of further locations across the Czech Republic.
Railway Administration Focuses on Awareness and Practical Support
The Czech railway infrastructure manager Správa železnic is also participating in the prevention measures. Director General Tomáš Tóth sees the latest figures as a positive sign but warns against reducing efforts. The aim is to remind people that professional help is available and that seeking support during difficult periods of life is the right thing to do. To achieve this, specialist organisations, information services at railway stations and on-site support measures are to be more closely connected.
According to Magdalena Lukasová from the National Institute of Mental Health, there is no single form of support that is equally suitable for everyone affected. Easily accessible services are therefore particularly important for young people.
Around 200 Deaths on Czech Railway Tracks Each Year
Around 200 people die each year in railway-related incidents in the Czech Republic. More than three-quarters of these deaths are attributed to suicides. In addition to the human tragedies, such incidents also have a significant impact on rail services. On average, train services have to be suspended for around an hour and a half following a fatal incident.
By expanding the prevention campaign and providing additional information about available support services, the authorities aim to achieve a further long-term reduction in deaths.
