Prague will ensure compensation for people affected by the construction of the Blanka tunnel

Prague - The capital city today promised to compensate the damages incurred by the residents of Prague in connection with the construction of the Blanka tunnel. This was stated to journalists by the chairman of the control committee, František Hoffman (KSČM). However, it is still unclear how the damages will be assessed and compensated. Opposition councilors are also concerned that today's promise from the council is merely a proclamation and does not obligate them to anything.
    Residents of Letná, among others, have complained about the construction, as cracks are appearing in buildings due to the tunneling, some have experienced parts of facades falling off, and parked cars have been damaged.
    Lawyer Hana Marvanová, who represents the residents of Letná, welcomes the city's promise. "But this is just the first step; further actions must follow," she told ČTK. According to her, representatives from the Department of City Investment, the legal department of the Prague City Hall, and residents need to discuss specific procedures for resolution. Marvanová believes that either the builder should directly repair the individual damages or pay the money needed for the reconstruction.
    According to councilor Petra Kolínská (SZ), today's decision does not address, for example, who will assess the damages, how they will be recorded and quantified, or the timeline within which they will be settled. Councilor Miroslav Poche (ČSSD) shares a similar opinion. "This is not a legal obligation, but merely a proclamation that does not bind the city to anything, which is exactly what the residents of Letná were striving for," he stated.
    The construction of the Blanka tunnel, which is part of the city ring road, is being funded by the city. According to Hoffman, Prague had previously agreed contractually with the contractor that 150 million crowns would be allocated for repairs. If the funds are insufficient, the Department of City Investment will increase the amount, according to Hoffman.
    However, it is not yet resolved whether people whose quality of housing has deteriorated due to the construction will also be compensated. Some residents have installed beams in their apartments to stabilize the structure of their homes due to the vibrations.