By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 10: Even as tension continues to mount between the Tourist Taxi Association of Meghalaya and their counterparts in Assam, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh has appealed for restraint and dialogue, urging cab operators from both states to resolve their differences without government intervention.
On Tuesday, Lyngdoh said the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxis Association (AKMTTA) should initiate talks with their counterparts in Assam instead of approaching the government with demands. “Members of both associations meet with each other every day. They must sit across the table and come to an understanding,” the tourism minister asserted.
Reiterating the government’s emphasis on the ‘vocal for local’ initiative, Lyngdoh suggested that cab operators explore partnerships with hoteliers.
“Cabbies should work in tandem with the hospitality sector. If they can provide guests to hotels, in return, hoteliers can ensure passengers for their cabs. This way, both industries can benefit without conflict,” he added.
The row began after the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxis Association announced an indefinite strike starting 5 am on September 16, during which tourist taxis from outside the state will be barred from entering tourist destinations across the Khasi and Jaintia Hills.
The announcement followed the expiry of a one-week deadline given to the state government to address the association’s demands. In retaliation, Assam cab operators have warned of launching similar agitations, threatening to block Meghalaya taxis from plying in their state.
The impact of the brewing tension is already being felt, with many passengers reporting a noticeable drop in the number of vehicles from both states operating on the Guwahati-Shillong road, as drivers are increasingly avoiding travel to either Shillong or Guwahati.
Some tourist cab operators who still ply between Shillong and Guwahati have also begun to hike fares, claiming that the reduced number of vehicles has forced them to do so.
