The Transport Administration opened Estonia's first ice road of the year on Sunday, connecting the islands of Hiiumaa and Saaremaa. Designed for vehicles weighing up to 2.5 tons, the ice road has quickly gained popularity, with approximately 60 cars waiting around 1 PM to cross the 17-kilometer path. This unexpected demand has led to lengthy queues at both ends of the ice road, highlighting the interest in this transportation route during winter months.

According to ERR's correspondent on Saaremaa, Margus Mulla, there were around twenty cars waiting on the Hiiumaa side and about sixty vehicles on the Saaremaa side. The ice road is typically open during daylight hours from 8:30 AM to 5 PM, with the last vehicle permitted entry at 4:30 PM. Notably, travellers should be mindful of the road’s conditions, which include bumps and a bridge over a crack in the ice formed at the 2.8 km mark. To maintain safety and ensure the ice road remains open, strict adherence to the traffic regulations and conditions is mandatory.

The maintenance of the ice road is carried out by Verston Eesti OÜ, and officials warn that unexpected closures may occur based on weather conditions. Users are encouraged to stay updated on the current status of the ice road to ensure safe travel, reflecting the local community's reliance on this winter access route to connect the islands of Hiiumaa and Saaremaa.