Prague to Bring Back Beloved Vintage Sprinkler Tram!
The Prague Public Transit Company (DPP) is preparing to bring back a historic sprinkler tram, a vehicle that once played a vital role in keeping the city’s streets tidy.
This project involves rebuilding the tram’s chassis to produce a fully operational replica of this distinctive maintenance vehicle.
The replica is set to be modeled after the historic sprinkler tram No. 2505 from the year 1925.
DPP plans to outfit the chassis of tram No. 2196, which was originally constructed in 1929, with a refurbished water tank. The restoration will involve leveling the chassis, adding any missing components, and incorporating both brand-new and refurbished elements, such as the electrical systems.
Upon completion, the tram will not just stand as a historical exhibit but will still be capable of performing its original gravity and pressurized sprinkling functions.
The whole project will be carefully monitored to ensure it stays true to historical details while also aligning with modern technical requirements. DPP intends to utilize the restored vehicle for special events, showcasing Prague’s rich transportation history and the essential role these trams once played in the urban upkeep.
A Glimpse Into the Past
In the aftermath of World War I, it became too expensive to maintain the streets of Prague using conventional trucks. Consequently, the city’s Building Authority commissioned Electric Companies to create specialized sprinkler trams.
The initial three models were unveiled between 1921 and 1922, and their successful performance prompted further production in subsequent years. However, operations ended in 1961 when they were replaced by more contemporary street-cleaning vehicles.
A different type of tram sprinkler made its way back to Prague in 2016 when the city adapted a Lubricating Tram by fitting it with a water tank. Since 2017, this tram has been consistently utilized to water grassy tram lanes throughout the summer.
The timeline for the project indicates that the replica is expected to be finished within 18 months following the signing of the contract.
