Prague's Transport Evolution: A Conversation with Jan Barchanek, DPP Transport Director

Prague's public transport network carries close to a billion passenger journeys a year through one of Europe's most protected historic city centres, while racing to modernise for the decades ahead. Balancing heritage, growth and technology is no small task, and few people understand that balance better than Jan Barchanek. In this episode, Dr. Kaan Yildizgoz speaks with Jan Barchanek, Transport Director and COO of the Prague Public Transport Company (DPP), about running trams, buses and metro across a historic city with narrow streets and limited space for cars. Jan explains DPP's approach to smart electrification, the practicalities of driverless metro on Lines C and D, and how the ROPID-coordinated integrated ticketing system keeps buses, trams, rail and ferries working as one network. He also shares how DPP trains its workforce through its own dedicated training school, and why long-term financing certainty matters as much as new technology. Whether you lead a transport authority, an operator, or a technology business supporting one, this conversation offers a clear, practical view of how a major European capital keeps its network resilient, affordable and people-focused. Chapters 00:00 Podcast Intro 00:17 Meet Jan Barchanek 01:23 Career Journey at DPP 03:32 Running Transit in Historic Prague 05:41 Affordable Fares and Night Service 07:07 Smart Bus Electrification Strategy 09:57 Digitalization and Driverless Metro 11:30 Integrated Transport with ROPID 13:32 Workforce Training and Change 17:11 Vision for 2030 and Beyond 19:38 Final Takeaway and Outro Connect with Us: Website: https://mobilityredefined.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mobility-redefined/ Mobility Redefined is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com Host: Dr. Kaan Yildizgoz Producer: Mike Cartmel Executive Producer: Darren Turpin Special thanks to: Brand design: Tina Olagundoye Digital Media: Belén Iturrioz Campo Marketing content and Mobility Redefined newsletter: Mike Cartmel If you have a question or comment, email us at [email protected] Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.