Shillong, Oct 8: n The Meghalaya Rural Tourism Forum (MRTF) has opposed the All Meghalaya Khasi Tourist Taxi Association’s (AMKTTA) proposal to restrict Assam-registered tourist taxis from operating in Meghalaya. The AMKTTA has suggested that these taxis should only drop passengers at central locations, such as Shillong, where they would need to switch to local tourist taxis.

MRTF officials caution that implementing this proposal could severely impact tourism in the state. They argue that if Assam taxi drivers choose to boycott Meghalaya, it would lead to increased costs for tourists and create logistical issues, as travelers would have to change vehicles during their trips. The AMKTTA has repeatedly pointed to the Sikkim model as a successful example, but the MRTF highlights the differences between the two states.

MRTF President Alan West Kharkongor explained that Sikkim is a protected state with sensitive international borders, whereas Meghalaya serves as a transit point for residents from other states such as Tripura and Mizoram. He stated, “The adoption of the Sikkim model would raise the issue of movement of people from various other states.”

In response to the AMKTTA’s demands, the MRTF held an urgent meeting on September 30 and subsequently submitted a letter to the Tourism Minister expressing their views. The forum contends that the AMKTTA’s proposal is not only legally invalid but also violates the Constitution of India regarding the fundamental rights to carry out inter-state trade and commerce.

While MRTF sympathizes with local taxi drivers, Kharkongor stressed that resorting to restricting commercial vehicles with valid credentials would harm the tourism sector and damage the state’s economy. The MRTF is also advocating for representation on the state government’s committee established to address this proposal.

Additionally, Kharkongor raised concerns about the treatment of local drivers at Guwahati Airport, where they face harassment and lack dedicated parking space. He has informed the Tourism Minister of these issues, urging that discussions be held with the airport authority to ensure adequate parking for Meghalaya transporters.