The Meghalaya government has rejected a demand to bar tourist taxis registered outside the state, citing legal constraints, but has assured local operators of measures to improve their business prospects through coordination with the tourism and hospitality sectors. The issue was discussed at a meeting held on Tuesday between Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Transport, Sniawbhalang Dhar, and representatives of the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA).
Dhar said the discussions were constructive and helped clarify the government’s position. He stated that legal opinion obtained from the Advocate General clearly indicates that vehicles registered outside Meghalaya cannot be prohibited from entering or operating within the state under existing laws.
“This legal position was explained to the association, and they understood the government’s constraints,” Dhar said.
While turning down the demand for restrictions, the deputy chief minister said the government would take steps to encourage greater use of local tourist taxis. He said hotel owners, resort operators and tour agencies would be called for meetings and urged to preferentially engage local taxis for tourists visiting the state.
Dhar added that another round of discussions would be held with the taxi association at the level of officials from the transport and tourism departments to work out practical measures to enhance opportunities for local drivers.
Emphasising the importance of service quality, the deputy chief minister urged local taxi operators to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy, clean and well-maintained, and that drivers remain disciplined and professional to provide a positive experience for visitors.
He also said the government is exploring additional initiatives to boost tourism, including the possible development of a dedicated application to showcase Meghalaya’s destinations and tourism-related services.
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