Meghalaya Tourism Minister Rejects "Sikkim Model" of Restricting Out-of-State Taxis

Shillong: Meghalaya’s Tourism Minister, Paul Lyngdoh, on Monday rejected the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association’s (AKMTTA) call to adopt a restrictive “Sikkim model” for tourist taxis, labelling the comparison as “inaccurate” and impractical.

Unlike Sikkim, which serves as a final destination for tourists, Lyngdoh described Meghalaya as a transit hub within broader travel circuits, such as routes connecting Kaziranga, Shillong, Sohra, and Silchar. He clarified that Sikkim does not entirely block out-of-state taxis, noting that West Bengal-registered vehicles frequently operate there.

Lyngdoh cautioned that the AKMTTA’s proposal could trigger unintended consequences and that any policy must be legally sound and logical.

He further encouraged local taxi operators to collaborate with counterparts in Assam, where many drivers already hold multi-state or national permits covering both regions.

Highlighting a vehicle shortage in Meghalaya, Lyngdoh urged local operators to leverage their position by forming partnerships with homestays, hotels, and resorts. “Operators should take the initiative to build these connections rather than relying on government intervention,” he stated.

Tourism Commissioner and Secretary Cyril VD Diengdoh outlined both immediate and long-term strategies to address concerns. To level the playing field, the Tourism Department proposed subsidizing high parking fees at Guwahati airport for Meghalaya-registered taxis. Diengdoh also pointed to the expansion of Shillong airport, which will soon accommodate direct flights from major Indian cities, reducing reliance on Guwahati and boosting tourist arrivals.

Diengdoh stressed that the Northeast is promoted as a unified tourism destination, with visitors often exploring multiple states. He noted that Meghalaya operators already transport tourists to places like Arunachal Pradesh via Guwahati, a role not exclusively filled by Assam-based vehicles.

The government is also supporting local operators through initiatives like a 50% subsidy on high-end vehicles. However, Diengdoh stated that the broader tourism ecosystem, including homestays, hotels, and village authorities, all play a vital role.

He warned that abrupt policy changes could harm Meghalaya’s residents, many of whom depend on Guwahati for healthcare, education, and connectivity. “Any decision must comply with legal frameworks, including all-India and three-state transport permits,” Diengdoh added, underscoring the need for balanced and lawful measures.