Riga city officials have banned pedestrians from walking on the ice of the Daugava River, effective Saturday, February 7th, due to safety concerns. The decision, made by the Riga City Council’s Security, Order and Corruption Prevention Committee on Friday, February 6th, aims to prevent accidents related to the unstable ice conditions.
The ban follows recommendations from the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LVĢMC) and the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD). Committee Chairman Ģirts Lapiņš emphasized the dangers posed by the Daugava’s wide expanse, strong currents, and fluctuating water levels, contrasting it with the relative safety of lakes or smaller rivers. Experts have also pointed to brown snow along the riverbanks as an indicator of changing water levels and unstable ice.
Riga Municipal Police will increase patrols, including drone surveillance, to enforce the ban. Despite the prohibition, some individuals, including foreign visitors, have continued to venture onto the ice. Police redirected dozens of people from the ice last weekend, initially focusing on preventative measures and informing people of the risks. Still, starting this week, those found on the ice face warnings or fines of up to 100 euros.
Hydrologists explain that the Daugava’s variable water level creates hazardous conditions, particularly under bridges where the ice is often thin and fragile. Strong currents contribute to uneven ice thickness and the formation of underwater erosion, potentially leading to sudden collapses. While cold weather has allowed for safe ice conditions on other bodies of water in Riga and along the coast, caution is still advised due to inconsistent ice thickness.
The ban reverses a previous, more lenient policy implemented in recent weeks. Previously, walking on the Daugava ice between bridges was permitted, but with restrictions – staying at least 50 meters away from bridges and overpasses. However, the latest decision reflects a heightened concern for public safety based on expert advice.
The State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) reminds the public that ice formation is uneven and influenced by factors like currents, springs, and temperature fluctuations. They advise anyone venturing onto frozen bodies of water to do so with a companion and to inform relatives of their plans. In the event of falling through the ice, immediate notification of rescue services and maintaining composure are crucial.