SHILLONG, July 20: UDP MLA from Nongpoh Mayralborn Syiem has pitched for constant checking and monitoring of state and national highways to ensure illegal toll gates do not resurface in Meghalaya.
Syiem acknowledged that while the problem has not been entirely eradicated, the situation has improved significantly compared to a decade ago.
He recalled that 15 years back, it was common to encounter multiple unauthorised check gates often operating without regulation along national highways and interior routes. Such gates, he said, functioned like extortion points under the guise of regulation.
According to the MLA, much of that has changed due to the state government’s ongoing efforts to clamp down on unauthorised collections.
He emphasised that the mushrooming of illegal toll gates has reduced, thanks to stricter surveillance and enforcement. However, he maintained that the need for vigilance remains critical.
He added that presently, only mobile check posts authorised by the state government for purposes such as GST enforcement or forest product regulation are operating, and these must be closely monitored to prevent misuse or overreach.
Based on his own visits and observations, Syiem stated that he has not come across illegal toll gates in the Nongpoh stretch of the national highway. Nonetheless, he stressed that the government must not lower its guard and should continue to ensure that checks occur strictly at designated entry and exit points to maintain transparency and prevent the re-emergence of unauthorised toll collection.
Tourism major driver of growth in Ri-Bhoi
Meanwhile, expressing satisfaction with the government’s increased investment in the sector, Syiem emphasised the potential of tourism as a major driver of economic growth in Ri-Bhoi.
He noted that the tourism sector has shown promising signs of revival, especially following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He pointed to the rise in tourist footfall across the state as evidence of renewed interest and improved infrastructure. The MLA attributed this progress to various initiatives taken by the government in recent years, particularly under budget allocations for the years 2023-24, 2024-25, and 2025-26, which he said reflected a serious commitment to tourism and wellness-based development.
Highlighting the developments in his own constituency, Syiem said Ri-Bhoi is witnessing the emergence of several attractions beyond the well-known Umiam Lake and the Orchid and Biodiversity Park. He mentioned the upcoming resort projects and various entrepreneurship schemes under the Chief Minister’s initiatives that have been introduced to support tourism-linked start-ups and businesses. He also informed that, as a legislator, he has identified new locations with tourism potential and formally submitted proposals to the government for consideration. He expressed hope that these would be taken up in due course, contributing to the district’s long-term growth and creating livelihood opportunities for the local population.
Syiem viewed these developments as a positive sign and reiterated the need for continued exploration, investment, and government support to fully unlock Ri-Bhoi’s tourism potential.
