Vehicles must carry own waste bags * No waste disposal on roadsides
Shillong, July 25: Sohra is bearing the brunt of irresponsible tourists, so much so that the despite known for its hospitality, it had impose severe restrictions on tourists – only for the greater interest of sustainable tourism.
Concerned over large-scale littering and open dumping of waste along Mawkdok-Sohra Road and other areas, the Hima Sohra Tourism Committee (HSTC) has announced certain dos and don’ts for tourists visiting areas under jurisdiction of Hima Sohra.
Coming down heavily on the outcome of irresponsible tourist behaviour, the committee has strictly prohibited picnicking, open cooking, and outdoor dining along Mawkdok-Sohra Road and other sites without permission from the local Dorbar Shnong.
All vehicles entering Sohra must carry their own waste bag, and disposal of waste on open grounds or roadsides is forbidden, said HSTC adviser Alan West Kharkongor.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, he said night camping is allowed at designated camping sites only, and unauthorised camping outside these areas is strictly prohibited.
Making it mandatory for tourists to hire local guides, Kharkongor said trekking within the area would now require hiring a local guide.
Meanwhile, vloggers, social-media influencers, and media channels would need prior approval from the Committee to promote or publish new or undisclosed spots within the Hima Sohra’s jurisdiction.
The measures aim to protect the natural environment, ensure sustainable growth of tourism, and preserve the local economy.
“These measures are being enforced to protect both the local economy and our region’s unique selling point-its natural environment-to ensure the sustainable growth of tourism in the region,” Kharkongor said while urging the cooperation of all concerned.
