On Saturday, a directive by Jānis Lange, the executive director of the Riga municipality, will come into force, prohibiting the presence of people on the ice of the Daugava river. This decision follows recent discussions within the Riga City Council's Security, Order, and Corruption Prevention Committee, which expressed concerns about public safety in light of the river's ice conditions. The Riga municipal police will enhance their monitoring of this ban, increasing patrols and employing drone surveillance to ensure compliance. Warning signs and barriers will be placed in various locations, and officials will use sound amplification devices to inform the public about the restrictions in place. While the prolonged cold weather has initially allowed some residents to walk on ice in select areas of Riga's lakes and coastal waters, it is crucial to note that ice thickness can vary significantly and may not be safe in many spots. Authorities had previously lifted a similar ban on the river, but now they are enforcing restrictions closer to the ice areas to prevent accidents.