In Norway, particularly in Northern Norway, there has been a notable increase in the number of tourists driving on winter roads in recent years. This surge in traffic has led to concerns about safety and the risks associated with unfamiliar driving conditions for foreign tourists. In response, the country's transportation minister, Jon Ivar Nygaard, acknowledged the frustration and worry experienced by local residents regarding accidents and unsafe situations involving tourist drivers. To address these issues, a well-rounded task force presented a series of recommendations aimed at enhancing safety for both tourists and the local population on these challenging winter roads.

The task force's proposals include a significant increase in the frequency and coordination of traffic controls by Statens vegvesen (the Norwegian Public Roads Administration) and the police. These measures are designed to ensure that tourists are adhering to road safety regulations and are well-prepared for winter driving conditions. The group is also suggesting the implementation of a standardized protocol for rental cars, which would feature written safety information and crucial equipment, like reflective vests, to assist tourist drivers in case of emergencies or vehicle breakdowns.

Overall, the proposed measures reflect an urgent need to balance the growing influx of tourism in Norway's winter regions with the necessary safety precautions to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of both visitors and residents. As the committee releases these recommendations, it is expected that local authorities and the tourism sector will collaborate to create a safer driving environment for all users of these scenic but treacherous roads during the winter months.