Munich-Prague Rail Link: New Tender, 2031 Launch

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Introduction

The Bavarian Railway Company (BEG) and the Czech Ministry of Transport will soon launch a tender for the Munich-Prague rail connection, with new rolling stock scheduled to be introduced on the approximately 440-km route starting in 2031.

Tender Launch

The forthcoming tender, a joint effort by BEG and the Czech Ministry of Transport, is anticipated to be launched around the turn of the year. This represents the second attempt by both countries to modernize the Munich-Prague rail connection, following the cancellation of the initial tender due to a lack of economically viable bids. The first tender was planned to commence service at the end of 2028.

Project Goals and Expectations

Bavarian Transport Minister Christian Bernreiter stated that the direct connection between Munich and Prague is crucial for Bavarian-Czech rail traffic, necessitating a long-term, passenger-focused approach. Cost reductions are expected, mainly due to updated evaluation procedures, streamlined staffing requirements, and other refinements. The aim is to attract a minimum of two bidders to foster competition. Czech Transport Minister Martin Kupka emphasized the importance of meeting modern European transport standards, offering comfort, reliability, and high-quality service.

Infrastructure and Technical Challenges

The Munich-Prague route is already one of the most technically demanding railway connections in Europe, facing challenges such as non-electrified sections and the need to operate under three different frequency systems. The planned development of high-speed rail in the Czech Republic over the next decade is expected to further complicate the situation. Both ministers have agreed to seek European Union support for this transport link.

Historical Context and Previous Agreements

In July 2017, transport ministers from both countries agreed to improve the Munich-Prague rail connection, focusing on increasing train speeds and railway link capacity. They agreed to create a joint route from Munich via Furth im Wald and Česká Kubice to Prague, aiming to compete with road transport and air travel. The main transport priority was the connection Munich – Nuremberg – Marktredwitz – Cheb – Pilsen – Prague and Munich – Regensburg – Furth im Wald – Domažlice – Prague, both of which are included in Germany’s long-term infrastructure plan – the Federal Transport Routes Development Plan (BVWP 2030). The goal is to reduce travel time between Prague and Munich to under four hours by 2030. In July 2023, a joint tender was launched to select a railway operator for transport services from December 2027 for 15 years on the rail link between Prague and Munich.

The tender for a new train operator on line Ex36 Prague – Pilsen – Munich was processed by the Czech Ministry of Transport together with the Free State of Bavaria, represented by BEG (Die Bayerische Eisenbahngesellschaft).

Conclusion

The Bavarian Railway Company (BEG) and the Czech Ministry of Transport are preparing to launch a new tender for the Munich-Prague rail connection, aiming to modernize the route and introduce new rolling stock by 2031. This initiative follows previous agreements and seeks to improve cross-border mobility and support sustainable transport goals, with the intent of reducing travel times and enhancing service quality.

Company Summary

Bavarian Railway Company (BEG): A fully Bavarian-owned subsidiary responsible for the procurement, financing, and control of public passenger rail transport services.

Czech Ministry of Transport: The government body responsible for transport-related matters in the Czech Republic.

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