Association seeks parking facilities, drivers’ helpline and joint mechanism to address interstate tourist-taxi issues

Shillong, September 8: The Association of Khasi Tourist Taxi Association (AKTTA) has described its meeting with the Transport Department as fruitful, while maintaining that several of its principal demands remain unresolved.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, held in the presence of Meghalaya Transport Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, AKTTA Secretary Balajied Jyrwa said the discussions marked a positive step towards finding a lasting solution to the difficulties faced by tourist-taxi operators.

Jyrwa said the association raised several long-standing concerns, including the lack of designated parking facilities, difficulties faced by local taxi operators at airports and railway stations, and the need to review and revive earlier interstate transport arrangements.

The association also proposed establishing a dedicated helpline through which taxi drivers and passengers could seek assistance during emergencies or disputes.

According to Jyrwa, the meeting agreed in principle to constitute a joint committee under the Transport Department. The proposed committee is expected to include representatives from the Transport and Tourism departments, district administrations, police and taxi associations. It will examine stakeholders’ concerns and recommend measures to prevent similar disputes in the future.

“We cannot say that we are fully satisfied because our main demands have not yet been fulfilled. However, we are encouraged that the process is moving forward and that the Government is showing its willingness to find a solution,” Jyrwa said.

He clarified that AKTTA was not demanding a complete ban on tourist taxis from Assam or any other state. Instead, the association is seeking a fair and properly regulated system that protects the livelihood of local taxi operators without inconveniencing tourists and other travellers.

Jyrwa appealed to the public and all stakeholders not to misunderstand the association’s position. He stressed that the matter should be resolved peacefully through continued dialogue and cooperation between the governments and taxi associations of Meghalaya and Assam.