The recently opened ice road in Vormsi has seen a surge in tourist traffic, with more than 160 vehicles arriving on peak days. This influx has become particularly important as the ferry service to the island has been out of operation for two weeks, making the ice road the only means for local residents to travel. To manage the increasing traffic and allow locals faster access, the local authorities have started issuing special decals to residents, granting them priority on the ice road.

As the weekend approaches, locals express concerns that without these decals, they would have to wait in long lines with the numerous tourists. The situation has sparked a debate about fairness and prioritization, prompting discussions within the community about how to best accommodate both residents and visitors. The mayor’s office is responding to this popular concern by providing these special stickers specifically for the weekend when they expect even larger crowds.

While the ice road has been a boon for tourism, it has also highlighted the delicate balance between supporting local economies and ensuring the quality of life for residents. The ongoing discussions will likely inform future policies regarding access and regulations for both locals and tourists when seasonal attractions are at their peak.