Tourism is picking up in Meghalaya after a slowdown following the August 19 incident, prompting the state government to step up efforts to improve tourist infrastructure, strengthen security along routes to Sohra and ensure local taxi operators benefit from the recovery. Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Transport Snaiwbhalang Dhar said on Monday that the government had proposed a dedicated tourist parking facility at Umtyngar, with a food court, cafe, toilets and designated pick-up and drop-off points. Similar facilities would be developed at other locations across the state.
The government has also formed a committee comprising representatives of the tourist taxi association, hotel industry, homestays and tour guides to improve coordination and encourage hospitality establishments to use local taxis. “I request them atleast where ever possible to use our local taxi,” Dhar said, adding that another committee would monitor cooperation among the stakeholders.
Dhar said the government had discussed enhanced security arrangements with the Home Department, particularly for tourists travelling towards Sohra, stressing the need for round-the-clock police monitoring, strategically placed CCTV cameras and measures to prevent disturbances. He said the government was working on several schemes to promote tourism, although their impact would take time to materialise.
Parambir Singh Sehdave, president of the Federation of Shillong Hotels, said the industry suffered in August and September following the incident, but bookings had improved from October. “Season is catching up we expect decent occupancy in the month of October. Advance booking are there. Situation are getting normal,” he said, adding that CCTV cameras had become mandatory for all hotels and homestays.
The Tourist Taxi Association expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far, though it stopped short of giving the government its complete endorsement. “It satisfied, association of not 100 percent satisfaction atleast we are satisfied with the development so far,” a tourist taxi representative said.
