Call for restriction of outside cabs in tourist spots in Meghalaya
SHILLONG, Sep 5: A conglomerate of transporters’ associations in Assam has resolved to retaliate if the Balajied Jyrwa-led All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA) restricts the movement of Assam-registered vehicles from plying to tourist spots in Meghalaya.
Kaushik Bhuyan, the president of the Tourist Transporters’ Association of Assam (TTAA), said the resolution was adopted by the Motor Paribahan Sanmilita Sewakarmi Mancha, Assam (union of transporters’ bodies). He also said the apex association would not let essential service vehicles move to Meghalaya, apart from restricting Meghalaya-registered vehicles to pick up or drop passengers at the Guwahati Railway Station or the LGBI Airport if the AKMTTA goes ahead with its decision.
“The reciprocal blockade will effectively turn Meghalaya into a zero-tourist zone, an outcome that is unacceptable and detrimental to all stakeholders,” the body said.
Opposing the move of the AKMTTA to call for agitation on September 16, the TTAA urged the Meghalaya government to avoid making any unilateral decisions that could jeopardise the region’s burgeoning tourism sector.
Condemning the “unjustified and selfish” demand of the AKMTTA, the TTAA said that Assam-registered tourist vehicles hold valid permits, including three-state tourist permits for Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh, and some even possess all-India tourist permits.
“These vehicles contribute a huge revenue to Meghalaya, and legally, these cabs are authorised to ferry tourists to various destinations in Meghalaya,” the statement said.
Recalling the recent attack in Pahalgam, which severely impacted the tourism industry of Jammu and Kashmir, the Assam association said that they do not wish to see similar disruptions in Meghalaya, as tourism thrives on peace, cooperation, and mutual respect.
“In this era of heightened social media influence, a single negative incident can cause a ripple or have a domino effect across the globe within minutes. The stakes are high, and we must remain vigilant-protecting both our guests and our reputation with proactive measures and unified resolve,” the statement added.
“Tourists seek seamless experiences, and if they face hostility or logistical hurdles, Meghalaya risks losing its hard-earned reputation as a welcoming destination. Negative reviews and word-of-mouth will deter future visitors,” the statement said.
They also claimed that Sikkim’s model cannot be replicated in Meghalaya due to constitutional and geopolitical differences, adding that Article 371F and its border sensitivities make Sikkim a special case.