Tourist footfall in State up on improved facilities

SHILLONG: There is a reason to rejoice when the State celebrates World Tourism Day on Tuesday as official data shows high inflow of tourists to Meghalaya compared to the past.
According to the official data of the State Government, the number of tourists in Meghalaya in 2012 was 6,85,567, and in 2013 it went up marginally to 6,98,042.
In 2014, the number of visitors rose to 7,26,453, and in 2015 as many as 7,59,192 tourists visited the State.
The data from January to July this year shows that as many as 4,07,641 tourists visited the State and by the end of the year, the figure is expected to double.
The State Government said tourist information centres have been set up at different locations for facilitating and assisting tourists and advisory indicating safety guidelines have been issued to all stakeholders. The government also said amenities have been set up at tourist destinations and highways for convenience of tourists. Moreover, community-based tourism products are being promoted.