Economic context of the implementation of the ETCS in the Czech Republic

The thesis deals with the economic analysis of the implementation of the European Train Control System ETCS, which aims to ensure higher safety, continuity and efficiency of transport. The aim of the thesis is to analyse whether the introduction of a single signalling system is really a step forward, whether the investment in the introduction has a return and what the future outlook for the introduction of ETCS is. The theoretical part describes the signalling equipment on railways, their types, historical development and the current situation. This is followed by an overview of the ETCS signalling system, including a technical description of its operation, its different levels, its development in the individual countries and the reasons for its introduction. The practical part analyses the introduction of ETCS including a comparison of the benefits and costs associated with the introduction of this signalling system. The emphasis is mainly on the impact of the introduction of ETCS on infrastructure and carriers, whether these activities are subsidised and what impact the implementation will have on the Czech economy and other stakeholders.