Borders Austria border checks lifted amid FMD progress
The Czech Ministry of Agriculture has lifted border checks with Austria, imposed due to a foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak. Restrictions on entering fields in three Czech regions also ended. However, controls and bans on imports of live animals remain for Slovakia and Hungary. Some food import rules are easing, but origin certificates are still required. The Makov crossing will reopen for trucks, except those carrying animal products.
Society 2.2M Czechs watch Pope Francis’ final farewell
Nearly 2.2 million Czechs watched the funeral of Pope Francis on Saturday via domestic TV platforms. Czech Television’s ČT24 and ČT2 broadcasts drew hundreds of thousands of viewers, while CNN Prima NEWS and Nova also reported strong numbers. The turnout was lower than for Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral. Pope Francis died on April 21 and was buried in Rome following a public Mass and private ceremony.
Tragedy Deadly factory fire causes CZK 50M damage
A fire at a paint shop in Chodová Planá caused damages of around CZK 50 million, leaving one dead and two critically injured. The cause remains under investigation. About 60 firefighters battled the blaze, and 40 workers were evacuated. The incident is being treated as public endangerment through negligence. The affected company, Schmelzer s.r.o., produces large metal pipes and steel structures.
Health Ticks spreading in urban areas, higher altitudes
Experts report that climate change is causing ticks to spread to higher altitudes and urban areas in the Czech Republic. A new version of the Tick App now includes city data and lets users report tick sightings. Researchers warn that ticks in city parks show higher infection rates with pathogens like Lyme disease and anaplasmosis. Experts also note that ticks are active almost year-round, with increased populations recorded in 2024.
Finance Tax deadline looms for Czech e-filers May 2
Czech residents have until Friday, May 2, to file their electronic income tax returns and pay owed taxes. The Financial Administration urges taxpayers not to wait until the last minute, warning that the system may become overloaded. The deadline for paper submissions passed in March. Filing late may result in penalties, and officials stress that electronic submissions are mandatory for most individuals under current tax laws.