By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 14: In a move aimed at strengthening Meghalaya’s tourism sector, members of the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Drivers Association (AKMTTDA), along with key tourism stakeholders, including hoteliers and homestay owners, attended a meeting convened by the Meghalaya State Skills Development Society (MSSDS) on Saturday.
The meeting focused on improving service standards in the state’s growing tourism industry, with particular emphasis on enhancing the role of tourist taxi drivers who often serve as the first point of contact for visitors.
Executive committee member Balajied Jyrwa stressed that many drivers require communication training, especially those who are reluctant or lack confidence in speaking English or Hindi.
According to Jyrwa, strengthening communication skills would significantly improve the overall visitor experience, promote Meghalaya as a tourist-friendly destination and support sustainable growth in the sector.
He noted that better interaction between drivers and tourists can help build trust, provide accurate information and ensure smoother travel experiences across destinations.
Responding positively to the concerns raised, MSSDS officials assured the association that short-term training programmes lasting one to two days would be organised.
Drivers attending the sessions will be provided a stipend or honorarium as compensation for their participation.
Upon successful completion of the training, drivers will receive stickers identifying them as government-trained personnel, a measure expected to enhance credibility and professionalism. While describing communication training as an immediate and practical remedy to boost tourism, Jyrwa also highlighted what he termed a necessary long-term policy intervention.
He maintained that restricting vehicles from outside Meghalaya at tourist destinations would protect the interests of local drivers and create a more regulated tourism environment within the state.
Stakeholders present at the meeting underscored the importance of coordinated efforts between the government and tourism service providers to ensure that Meghalaya remains competitive and welcoming amid increasing tourist inflow.
