SHILLONG, June 11: In a landmark move aimed at enhancing tourist safety in Meghalaya, the state government is set to roll out CCTV surveillance across high-footfall tourist locations in Sohra (Cherrapunji). Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh on Wednesday announced that the state government, in coordination with the Sohra administration, will install CCTV cameras in key tourist locations.
Announcing the initiative during a felicitation ceremony, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh declared, “The Tourism Department will work with the Sohra administration to install CCTV cameras in key tourist areas,”—
The programme was organised as a step being hailed as a proactive response to the tragic death of tourist Raja Raghuvanshi, whose body was recovered following an intense multi-agency search operation .Held at the Conference Hall of the SDO (Civil), Sohra, the event honoured every individual and agency involved in the extensive search and rescue mission.
The case, now tied to the alleged involvement of Raghuvanshi’s wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, has deeply impacted the local community and led to calls for better monitoring infrastructure at major tourist hubs. Lyngdoh, while addressing the gathering, urged tourists to come to Meghalaya with respect for its culture and communities, cautioning that “harmful or unlawful behaviour would not be tolerated.”
He called on locals to uphold the values of “self-discipline and responsible tourism,” describing Sohra as “a land of good spirit and land of good manners.” He added, “Despite facing unwarranted criticism from beyond our borders, our community stood tall, leading peaceful rally and candle vigil while supporting an extraordinary search effort.”
As part of a larger infrastructure push, Lyngdoh also announced that the government would “sanction the construction of a proper facility for street vendors near Mawkdok Bridge,” to boost both public convenience and local livelihoods.
The programme, chaired by M.A. Challam, ADC i/c SDO (Civil), Sohra Sub-Division, saw the presence of Sohra MLA Gavin M. Mylliem, MDC T.W. Chyne, and Tourism Director Cyril V.D. Diengdoh, IAS, among other key officials.MLA Gavin M. Mylliem described tourists as “extended family” and emphasized that collaboration between the government, local dorbars, and grassroots leaders was vital to building a robust tourism ecosystem
In recognition of their heroic efforts, ₹5.4 lakh in cash awards was distributed among 36 members of the Tour Guide Association of Meghalaya—including the Central Body, Sohra Unit, and West Jaintia Hills Adventure Sports & Mountaineering Association—at ₹15,000 per recipient. Certificates of appreciation were also presented to police personnel, SDRF, Fire & Emergency Services, and civil staff for their outstanding dedication during the high-stakes operation.
