Shillong, Sep 8: Concerned over the persistent demand for ban on entry of outside taxis in tourist spots, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh has urged All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTA) to review their stand and take up the matter with their counterparts in Assam for a better solution.
The minister’s statement came following the threat from Tourist Transporter Association of Assam (TTAA) to suspend all operations to Meghalaya, including blocking of trucks carrying essential commodities, besides reciprocal ban on entry of Meghalaya-registered vehicles at Guwahati Airport and tourists places in Assam, etc.
“This is precisely what I have forewarned in the past that every action always has a reaction to it. We live in a world where we are mutually dependent. We cannot isolate ourselves and whatever we do has to pass through the test of logic and the law,” Lyngdoh said while referring to TTAA’s threat to restrict entry of Meghalaya-registered vehicles in Assam.
Since the AKMTA’s demand has a wider purview crossing the boundary of Meghalaya, the association should take up the matter with their counterparts in that state, according to the minister.
“If KSU has any issues in Assam, they should speak to AASU so likewise we expect these bodies also to speak to their counterparts as they are in the same business,” he said.
To a question, if the proposed ban would be illegal, the minister said, “…most of them have either national permits or permits that cover Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh.”
He wondered if the association seeking ban on outside taxis are with the Transport department and do they have any office space?
Stating that Sikkim’s case is different in respect to ban on outside taxis, he said many vehicles pass through Meghalaya and tourists often visit the state as part of a larger circuit.
“This is an attempt to mislead by saying that tourist taxis are not allowed from outside of Sikkim. You can find out for yourself that a lot of vehicles from West Bengal are in fact taking tourists to Sikkim,” he said.
On allegations that many drivers have had to surrender the PRIME vehicles due to non-payment of loan, the minister said, “…there is a shortage of vehicles that actually serve to ply and take tourists to various sites.”
Suggesting the local transporters to partner with homestays, resorts, and hotels to offer services to tourists and take advantage of being locals, “…do not forget that you have the advantage of being a local….Talk to them, partner with them…”
Meanwhile, the Commissioner & Secretary in-charge Tourism Cyril Diengdoh has stated that the department has had multiple meetings with the AKMTA and is exploring practical solutions.
He informed one potential solution being considered is to subsidise parking fees for Meghalaya-registered taxis at Guwahati Airport, adding this would help level the playing field for local taxis and make them more competitive.
Diengdoh also highlighted the upcoming expansion of Shillong Airport, which will increase direct air connectivity and potentially boost tourism. This development is expected to bring more tourists directly to the state, benefiting local businesses.
The Commissioner emphasised the complexity of the issue, involving multiple stakeholders, including homestay owners, hoteliers, and local bodies. He stressed the need for careful consideration and engagement with all parties to find a solution that is fair and within the confines of the law.
Diengdoh warned that any decision taken without proper consideration could have adverse consequences, including potential challenges in court. He emphasized the importance of the need for a solution that balances the interests of all stakeholders while ensuring compliance with the law.
