While other measures are being investigated to protect the interests of local taxi companies, the Meghalaya government has ruled out limitations on the admission of foreign tourist taxis into the state, citing legal constraints. The demand made by the All-Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA) to forbid outside tourist vehicles from entering the state is not legally feasible, according to Sniawbhalang Dhar, Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Transport.According to him, this was based on the Advocate General’s advice that the current legislation did not allow for such a restriction.
According to Dhar, the State administration is still considerate of the local taxi companies’ concerns in spite of the legislative restrictions.The State administration has chosen to take a consultative approach by holding a meeting with hoteliers, resort owners, and tour operators after a “positive” meeting with the AKMTTA.The meeting’s goal is to formally ask those involved in the tourism industry to prioritise and aggressively encourage tourists to utilise local tourist taxis.The Deputy Chief Minister also urged local taxi drivers to maintain high standards, emphasising that service quality is still vital.
He emphasised that in order to give visitors to the state a pleasant and professional experience, cars must be well-maintained, tidy, and clean, and drivers must maintain their discipline.Dhar further told that additional talks are planned to boost tourism promotion in Meghalaya, including discussions on the potential development of a new state-specific tourism app aimed at increasing the overall visitor experience.