The public security bureau of the city of Harbin, Heilongjiang province has announced the cancellation of all recreational activities on ice, including the annual ice and snow carnival on the frozen Songhua River, as of Dec 7, explaining that the regulation is for people’s security and in accordance with the local government.

Other activities like sliding, a dog-drawn sled, swimming, and fishing on ice are banned to prevent visitors and vehicles from falling into the river and ice amusement facilities, even approved ones must halt. The police say they will increase 24-hour patrols along the river starting Dec 8 and they are encouraging locals and visitors to report any illegal activities and will work with other departments in cracking down on ice amusement facilities, with penalties for lawbreakers.

Man playing with a top on the frozen Songhua River in Harbin. The river’s Harbin section usually freezes up because of extremely low temperatures in winter. [Photo/Xinhua]