Guwahati, Sep 20: Tensions escalate as the All Assam United Motor Transport Association (AAUMTA) threatens to halt the entry of commercial vehicles carrying daily essentials from Assam into Meghalaya. This move is in response to a week-long ultimatum issued by the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA) to the Meghalaya government, demanding restrictions on tourist vehicles from Assam and other states from entering tourist spots in Meghalaya.
On Wednesday, AKMTTA held a public rally at Malki Ground in Shillong, challenging the government’s stance on tourism and local transport. They called for a ban on non-Meghalaya registered tourist cabs, particularly those from Assam. Despite these cabs holding valid permits for Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh, as well as all-India tourist permits, AKMTTA argues their presence should be restricted.
In a strong rebuttal, AAUMTA emphasized that these tourist vehicles are legally authorized to operate in Meghalaya, and any hostile actions could have severe repercussions. They warned that such measures could disrupt the livelihood of local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, street vendors, and various service providers, leading to a sharp decline in tourist activities.
AAUMTA expressed grave concern about the safety and security of Assam’s tourist vehicles and their drivers. They have observed that several bookings to Meghalaya have already been canceled, and travel agents are redirecting itineraries to Arunachal Pradesh. This shift threatens to plunge Meghalaya’s tourism industry into a crisis reminiscent of the COVID period.
The association plans to submit a memorandum to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, stating that if tourist vehicles from Assam are barred from entering Meghalaya, then no commercial vehicles from Assam, carrying essential goods, oil, and gas, will be allowed into the state.
Brajen Das, president of the Greater Guwahati Tata Sumo Drivers’ Welfare Association, echoed these concerns, hoping for a prompt resolution. "Currently, our vehicles face no issues in Meghalaya, but we have not decided on further actions if the situation deteriorates," he stated.
Original Story https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/09/21/assam-threatens-retaliation-over-demand-for-restrictions/
Category : MEGHALAYA
Tags:
