Shillong, Jun 05: The Federation of Shillong Hotels expressed its concern on the violent situation in the city leading to a “disastrous environment” for the tourism sector.

A statement issued on Tuesday by the secretary of the Federation, Arnold Lanong said that Shillong has become a popular tourist destination in this part of the country for the past few years, however the unfortunate turn of events have plunged this industry into darkness.

“Pelting of stones on tourist vehicles is the worst kind of treatment that could be meted out to our visitors and the fallout of which is that tourist Vehicles from Assam have started to avoid coming to Shillong,” he said.

Lanong said that the stone pelting was totally uncalled for and it is virtually unheard in any part of the world that tourists are harmed adding that even considering that most disturbed cities of the world do not appear to have any such history of atrocities upon tourists.

According to him, the fallout of the current situation has directly affected all road side vendors, tea stalls, food stalls, tourist spots, local taxis, tourist cabs, home stays, guest houses and hotels.

The fallout of the current situation has hugely impacted the economic condition of the population of the city which in various ways are dependent mainly on the tourism sector.

“We appeal to all sections of the society and especially those directly involved in the present standoff to understand the significance of the tourism industry and thereby adopt non violent means in resolving issues of contention,” Lanong said.

The Federation also appealed to the government to take proactive measures in restoring peace and building trust and security in the city.