By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 16: The Shillong Traffic Police will soon conduct inspections at key locations where private individuals are allegedly renting out two-wheelers and four-wheelers for commercial use, which is strictly prohibited in Meghalaya.
This move follows a public notice issued by the Commissioner of Transport, David D. Sangma, on June 13, which states that engaging in the commercial rental of private vehicles is not permitted in the state.
Sangma clarified that no individual or organisation is authorised to offer rent-a-bike or rent-a-cab services, as such schemes have not yet been implemented in Meghalaya.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, SP (Traffic), Kamakhya Prasad, said, “We are also carrying out checks to detect individuals who are illegally renting private two-wheelers.”
Meanwhile, the Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization (HITO), Shillong City, has raised concerns about the continued operation of such services despite the government’s ban.
HITO Shillong City general secretary Balajied Jyrwa questioned how private individuals are still able to rent out vehicles in violation of the notification.
He said the illegal renting of private two-wheelers and four-wheelers pose a serious threat to the safety of both locals and tourists.
Jyrwa reminded that HITO had submitted memorandums to the state government and the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), demanding strict action against those involved.
“But no action has been taken so far,” he said.
Jyrwa also warned that HITO will continue to conduct independent checks to identify individuals engaged in these illegal rental businesses.
The crackdown comes after a police investigation into the murder of Indore resident Raja Raghuvanshi revealed that he, his wife Sonam Raghuvanshi, and the three accused had rented two-wheelers in Shillong to travel to Sohra, where the crime was committed.
Additionally, the Shillong Traffic Police will also launch checks to identify private vehicles illegally operating as tourist taxis.
“We have instructed our personnel to conduct checks to detect private vehicles being used as tourist taxis,” Prasad said.
He added that traffic police have already been deployed at key locations such as Mawlai, Umiam Viewpoint (Mawiong Rim), and MES Junction.
Strict action will be taken against violators, he warned, reiterating that any private vehicle found operating as a tourist taxi without authorisation will face penalties.