Given the number of accidents and other incidents that have caused loss of life and limb, the Deputy Commissioner and Chairperson of the District Tourism Promotion Society (DTPS) for East Khasi Hills has informed the general public that it is now mandatory for tourists to take tourist guide services while trekking to avoid any unfortunate events. “In view of safety reasons, it is now mandatory for all tourists to take the services of a registered tourist guide while undertaking treks (and outdoor activities) in the area,” East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Rosetta M Kurbah said in an order.
The recent incident regarding the death of Indore tourist Raja Raghuvanshi is the most notorious. It had originally been suspected that he and his wife had had an accident while trekking alone. Suspicion then moved to possible murder-kidnap before the current theory that Raghuvanshi had been murdered in a conspiracy hatched by his widow Sonam with four other outsiders. Going back further, Hungarian tourist Zsolt Puskás went missing in March and his body was found only in April. He is believed to have been involved in an accident while trekking alone towards Tyrna. Although not guaranteed, the use of a local knowledgeable guide might have saved his life. The tourism department has emphasised the need for better safety measures to protect the region’s reputation as a safe and serene tourist destination.
It may be mentioned that following the aftermath of the murder, the administration in Sohra and stakeholders have proposed comprehensive reforms for the region’s tourism sector. The meeting had stressed on the urgent need for mandatory guides for treks, improved tourist registration, and structured communication between agencies. The proposals adopted at the meeting are, mapping and classifying all existing trekking trails based on difficulty levels, standardised safety advisories for tourists, setting up CCTV surveillance and improved monitoring at key entry and exit points and a “tourist buddy” system, where local youth or guides accompany tourists to ensure safety and provide real-time information.