Shillong, Sept 8: The All Meghalaya Khasi Tourist Taxi Association has threatened to launch a strike in the coming days, pressing for a dedicated “Tourist Taxi Policy” to regulate the entry of Assam-registered vehicles into the state.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, responding to the demand, cautioned against hasty measures, saying that restricting vehicles with valid national or multi-state permits could face legal challenges.
“Every action has a reaction. We cannot isolate ourselves from neighboring states. Any decision must pass the test of logic and law,” Lyngdoh told reporters.
The Minister urged the association to initiate discussions with their counterparts in Assam, noting that transport issues often transcend state boundaries. He also pointed out that unlike Sikkim—which regulates entry as an end-point destination—Meghalaya is a transit state for many tourists visiting multiple Northeastern states in one circuit. Restricting vehicles, he warned, could affect tourism flow across the region.
Government Exploring Alternatives
Lyngdoh said the Government has been engaging with transporters and exploring practical solutions, such as:
- Subsidizing high airport parking fees for Meghalaya-registered taxis.
- Promoting local operators with subsidies of up to 50% on premium tourist vehicles.
- Encouraging partnerships between local drivers and homestays, hotels, and resorts to ensure steady business.
He emphasized that tourism is a multi-stakeholder sector involving hoteliers, homestay owners, and village authorities, whose perspectives must also be considered.
The Minister cautioned that excessive restrictions could backfire, affecting Meghalaya residents who rely on Assam for airport access, medical treatment, and student travel. “Any decision must be within the law,” he reiterated, assuring that the Government will continue dialogue with the association to arrive at a balanced solution.
