Prague will modify Rohanský Island, it will defend against floods

Prague - Prague will modify the area of Rohanský Island in Karlín. In the locations of the former industrial site, a relaxation zone will be created with paths, benches, ponds, and a wooden pier. The area will also serve to retain water during floods. Prague will pay about 170 million crowns excluding VAT for the modifications. This is based on the resolution of the council and the announcement of a public contract for the construction supplier, as reported by ČTK.
    The city has divided the area's modifications into two contracts, the first of which is worth 150 million and the second 20 million crowns without VAT. Their aim is to create a zone for relaxation and recreation by excavating the terrain. A retention basin by the Vltava River will thus be created, serving also in the fight against floods.
    "The area, as designed, thus simultaneously creates space for relaxation and recreation, a retention space during heavy rains, and an interesting, biologically valuable landscape feature as a habitat for a large number of animal species practically in the center of the city," states the explanatory report that municipal councilors had at their disposal when approving the announcement of the contract.
    Approximately 190,000 cubic meters of soil is to be excavated. A channel and ponds will be created around Rohanský Island. "By modifying the terrain, a retention space with a volume of 80,000 m³ will be created, which corresponds to a 20-year flood," adds the document.
    Prague already has funds prepared to pay for the work and is also counting on a contribution from European Union funds of about 100 million crowns. After the excavation of the soil from the area, a second phase will follow, during which paths for pedestrians, benches, waste bins, bike stands, and playgrounds for children or a climbing wall will be built in the area. A wooden pier "for the short-term stay of visitors ensuring an interesting closer contact with the water" will also be created. Prague intends to draw funds from the EU for this part as well.
    Prague has already announced a public contract for the first phase of modifications to the Rohanský waterfront. Companies can apply until mid-June. The city hall anticipates that construction work will last a year and a half. The tender is published on the public contracts portal.