The Czech Ministry of Transport has received two bids for the operation of the R10 rail line connecting Prague, Hradec Králové, and Trutnov. According to Ministry spokesperson František Jemelka, the tender closed at 10:00 a.m. today, with the selected provider set to begin service in December 2028. While incumbent České dráhy submitted a bid, the ministry confirmed that private operators Leo Express and Arriva did not participate in the process.
Who is competing for the R10 route?
The competitive landscape for the R10 line has narrowed to two primary contenders: the incumbent state operator, České dráhy, and the private rail carrier RegioJet. This development follows a tender process initiated by the Ministry of Transport, valued at approximately 3,36 miliardy CZK excluding VAT. The contract covers a six-year period with an option to extend for an additional two years. Unlike some previous arrangements where České dráhy operated the route without a competitive tender, this process marks a shift toward market-based procurement for the Hradečan and Krakonoš express services.
The R10 line requires an annual performance of approximately 1,865 milionu train-kilometers. The contract is structured as a “net-cost” agreement, meaning the financial risk associated with passenger revenue rests entirely with the selected transport operator.
What service standards must the operator meet?
The Ministry of Transport has set specific technical requirements for the winning bidder, though the purchase of brand-new rolling stock is not mandatory. According to tender documents, the trains must meet the following criteria:
- Passenger Comfort: All sets must be air-conditioned and equipped with an onboard information system, power sockets, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Onboard Services: The operator is required to provide refreshment sales on all services.
- Technical Specs: Trains must be capable of reaching 140 km/h under electric traction and 100 km/h in non-electrified sections.
- Safety: Mandatory installation of the European Train Control System (ETCS).
- Capacity: A minimum of 300 seats per train set is required.
How will the service frequency change?
The current service pattern for the R10 line is expected to remain consistent under the new contract. Hourly connections will continue to link Prague and Hradec Králové, while the extension to Trutnov will be served by every second train. This ensures that the existing level of service for the Hradečan and Krakonoš lines remains stable while introducing competition into the operation of these regional express routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Leo Express and Arriva not bid?
The Ministry of Transport confirmed that neither Leo Express nor Arriva submitted offers by the 10:00 a.m. deadline. The reasons for their non-participation were not disclosed in the official ministry update.
When will the new operator start service?
The successful bidder, currently being evaluated by the Ministry of Transport, is scheduled to commence operations in December 2028.
Will ticket prices change?
The tender establishes the operational framework and service requirements. Because the contract is in a “net-cost” regime, the operator holds the revenue risk, which can influence commercial strategies, though state-regulated fare integration often remains a factor in Czech rail transport.
What do you think about the shift toward competitive tendering for regional express lines in the Czech Republic? Share your thoughts in the comments section below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on rail infrastructure projects.
