HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Sept 7: Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh has expressed concern that the recent protest call by the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTA) could spark retaliatory action from neighbouring Assam, potentially affecting the tourism flow between the two states.
The AKMTA has been opposing the entry of tourist taxis from outside Meghalaya into the state’s popular tourist spots. Lyngdoh, however, warned that such a move could backfire, as associations in Assam have already hinted at imposing similar restrictions on Meghalaya’s taxis operating in their state.
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“We have seen the reaction from the Assam associations. They have made it clear that if their vehicles are stopped from entering tourist spots in Meghalaya, they too will not allow Meghalaya vehicles to enter their areas,” Lyngdoh told reporters on Sunday.
The Minister stressed the need for dialogue to resolve the matter. He pointed out that a committee headed by senior official Cyril Diengdoh has been engaging with the associations, yet the issue remains unsettled. “We have suggested that AKMTA meet the committee. They have been meeting from time to time, but I fail to understand how they cannot resolve the issue,” he said.
Lyngdoh further noted that tourism is a lifeline for the region and disputes between drivers of the two states should not escalate into confrontation. “Ideally, disputes between Meghalaya and Assam drivers should be resolved through discussions between the respective associations. If they continue with protests, we clearly understand it may lead to retaliatory measures from Assam,” he cautioned.
The Minister also underlined that while the Meghalaya government is committed to safeguarding the interests of local drivers, it must also ensure that the state remains open and accessible for visitors from across the Northeast and beyond.
Tourism stakeholders have voiced concern that any restriction on inter-state movement of taxis would hamper visitor inflow at a time when the sector is recovering from the pandemic slump. Officials said efforts are being made to bring both associations to the table to prevent escalation.
