Tourist entry to the popular Weisawdong Falls in Meghalaya has been suspended until further notice following prohibitory orders issued by the Sohra Civil Sub-Division administration amid a renewed village dispute.
The restrictions were imposed by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Mark A. Challam under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, and came into effect immediately. The administration said the decision was taken to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents in the area.
According to the order, the assembly of five or more people has been prohibited within a 200-metre radius of Weisawdong Falls, including all existing and proposed access routes. The carrying of sticks, machetes, firearms, or any other weapons has also been strictly banned within the restricted zone.
The latest restrictions follow an ongoing dispute between local villages over access and management of the tourist site. Although the matter was legally challenged, an interim agreement reached in September 2025 had allowed the existing arrangement to continue in the interest of maintaining peace and supporting tourism. However, fresh tensions prompted the administration to impose the new restrictions.
Officials have clarified that tourists will not be permitted to visit Weisawdong Falls until further orders are issued. They also warned that anyone found violating the prohibitory orders would face legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
Authorities have appealed to the public and visitors to cooperate with the restrictions as efforts continue to restore normalcy and ensure public safety.