By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 29: Commissioner and Secretary of Home Department CVD Diengdoh, who heads a government-constituted committee examining the issues of tourist taxi associations, said the demands for restricting the entry of taxis from outside the state into tourist spots in Meghalaya must be looked at from multiple perspectives rather than a single viewpoint.
Speaking to media persons here on Friday, Diengdoh said discussions were held with the taxi associations. He said some of their issues will require consultations with different stakeholders, including hoteliers and tour operators.
The committee suggested subsidising the parking fee at the Guwahati Airport as it is too high. The department concerned is looking into it, Diengdoh said, adding that the other issues of the associations should be taken up with the state government for discussions.
Asked about possible repercussions of restricting taxis from outside the state in Meghalaya, he said these issues have to be looked at from all perspectives given the involvement of multiple stakeholders.
“One should exercise care while taking decisions, and assess their possible impact,” he stressed.
He also said that the committee explored various ways so the issues can be addressed. He added that discussions were held to explain to the associations why it is difficult to implement some of their suggestions.
Earlier, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh had cautioned that restricting the entry of vehicles from outside the state could trigger a backlash in Assam, affecting the movement of the people of Meghalaya to the airport, railway stations, and hospitals in Guwahati.
