The regulations aim to reduce vehicle traffic intensity in the area of Jūrmala and to promote the use of more environmentally friendly modes of transport.
The rules also provide for the possibility of purchasing a pass for a longer period, such as a seven-day pass for €10, 30-day pass for €31, or 365-day pass for €180.
Discounts are intended for employees of individual industries, multi-child families, people studying in Jūrmala, employees of the Jūrmala municipal authorities and others. Those declared in the city will still have free passes.
“Jūrmala is the only resort town in Latvia with unique natural values, the narrowest place between river and sea only 300 meters wide. In recent years, we have also seen a steady increase in traffic intensity outside the summer season, which undeniably harms the environment, causing both noise and air pollution.
“We see that two euros is not enough incentive to choose a bypass or more environmentally friendly transport, so the need to change the rules is justified.
“To achieve the climate goals set in Europe, both in Europe and Latvia, we are talking about the need to change people's habits, to choose more environmentally friendly ways of moving, and this is one of the steps we are taking to contribute to maintaining the quality of the environment,” said Edgars Stobovs, executive director of Jūrmala local government.
