Construction of the optical network in Malá Strana

A new fibre-optic network is gradually being developed in Prague 1 (Malá Strana), bringing faster, more stable, and more modern internet connectivity for residents, institutions, and local businesses. Fibre-optic infrastructure is now a key prerequisite for high-quality digital services, remote work, and modern communication. Construction is carried out progressively in individual streets and locations to ensure that impacts on public spaces are kept to a minimum and limited in time. The works include the professional removal of paving and surfaces, which are subsequently restored to their original condition. Access to buildings is maintained throughout the entire construction period. The aim of the project is to prepare Prague 1 for future technological demands and to ensure that the municipal district provides adequate technical infrastructure not only for its residents but also for visitors. The fibre-optic network will support the development of smart solutions, improved online services, and greater comfort in everyday life. More detailed information about the progress of the works and individual stages is available in the video.

In April 2025, the construction began on a modern fibre-optic network in Malá Strana that will bring high-speed internet to households and businesses, along with new pavements and improved public spaces. Everything is taking place under the supervision of Prague 1, with an emphasis on safety, tidiness and clear communication with the public.

On Tuesday, 22 April 2025, the first stage of a large-scale project to build a fibre-optic network in Malá Strana began. The project is being implemented gradually between 2025 and 2027, and will bring high-speed, stable internet with speeds of up to 10 Gb/s to residents, schools, institutions and businesses.

The project is being executed by Vodafone, Quantcom and CETIN in cooperation with the Prague 1 district and Technická správa komunikací hl. m. Prahy (Technical Administration of Roads of the Capital City of Prague) (TSK).

This coordination means that the trench strip will not only be repaved, but the pavements will  undergo complete reconstruction - from façade to curb - including accessibility improvements in locations approved by heritage authorities.

Main benefits for citizens:

·       High-speed internet for homes, businesses, schools and institutions

·       Reliable, uninterrupted connectivity with strong interference resistance

·       High capacity - ideal for working from home, online learning and streaming

·       High-speed data uploads - e.g. for video calls and cloud storage

·       Higher reliability at peak times and in densely populated areas

Construction work description

The work mainly concerns the pavements, which are being dismantled across their full width to allow for complete surface renewal and accessibility improvements.

Once the mosaic paving is taken up, the pavement is made safe for pedestrian use.

A trench for the optical conduit is opened and covered with walk-on plates, with barriers installed for safety.

The service connections to buildings are covered with access ramps.

After the cables are laid, the trench is backfilled and compacted, and then handed over to the company DAP for pavement restoration.

Where road surfaces need to be opened, the work is kept to a minimum and generally finished the same day.

Construction work progress

At least seven days before work starts, traffic signs are put in place in the affected area.

On the day work begins, all signage is installed in accordance with the approved traffic‑engineering plan (DIR), and dismantling of the mosaic paving commences. The paving is then professionally stored by DAP.

Due to the complete reconstruction of the pavement from the building façade to the curb, the paving is removed across the full width.

The pavements remain accessible to pedestrians for the duration of the work. All trenches are covered with walk-on plates and fitted with barriers.

During the excavation phase, a trench is opened along the curb for the optical cables, and connection pits to individual buildings are dug at the same time. As soon as each is completed, it is covered with a pedestrian walkway.

After the optical cables are installed according to the project, the trench is backfilled and compacted.

The site is then handed over to DAP, which completes the concrete bedding and prepares the base for the new paving.

Next, sand is placed and the new mosaic paving installed across the full width of the pavement.

If necessary, a cable chamber is constructed, again securely covered.

Any opening of road surfaces is time-limited (max. 1 day), marked with traffic signs, and managed as temporary drive‑overs to keep traffic moving smoothly.

Safety and cleaning

Each site is inspected, secured and tidied on an ongoing daily basis.

The construction work is being carried out in stages to respect heritage‑protection requirements and to manage traffic impacts. The schedule is designed to minimise the impact on the daily life of the inhabitants of Malá Strana.

The stages are organised by street blocks and are scheduled so that they do not overlap in critical areas. Each stage has its own detour route and arrangements for deliveries and access.

The reports in PACMAN are a key feedback channel. We will adapt our procedures according to the feedback, and continuously check the quality of the work on site.

How to send a quality report

1. Attach one to three photos of the situation

2. Describe the location and the problem (e.g. "uneven pavement, poor signage")

3. Indicate the time when the problem manifests itself (if relevant)

Thank you for your feedback - it helps us keep the streets safe and well‑maintained.

The reconstruction of sidewalks in Prague 1 – Malá Strana will continue in the next stages. The project aims to gradually improve the technical condition of sidewalks, increase pedestrian safety, and enhance the overall appearance of public spaces in one of the busiest parts of the city. Works are carried out section by section to maintain access to buildings and keep streets operational. Original stone and mosaic paving is carefully removed and, after construction work is completed, either reinstalled or replaced with suitable materials. All works are carried out with respect for the historic character of the area. The reconstruction follows previously completed sections and is part of a long-term plan to revitalise public spaces in Prague 1. The municipal district seeks to create a safer and higher-quality environment for residents, visitors, and local businesses. Further details on the works and specific locations can be found in the video.