Shillong: Shillong MP Dr. Ricky AJ Syngkon has stressed that meaningful dialogue is the only way forward to resolve the ongoing standoff between tourist taxi drivers of Meghalaya and Assam. The agitation, spearheaded by the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA), has disrupted travel and sparked confrontations along the inter-state border.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Syngkon said the root of the issue lies in concerns repeatedly raised over the years but never adequately addressed. “This problem is not new. It has been discussed many times in the past, but no one has taken concrete steps. That is why we are witnessing this situation today,” he observed.
The MP pointed out that the conflict ultimately affects livelihoods on both sides of the border. “If we look closely, this is about the survival of people from both states who depend on tourism and transport for their daily bread. Protests and blockades will only worsen the hardship,” he cautioned.
Calling for immediate intervention, Dr. Syngkon urged the government to convene a joint meeting of all stakeholders, including representatives of taxi associations, tourism bodies, and authorities from both states. “The need of the hour is for everyone to come to the table, understand one another, and find a mutually acceptable solution. Only then can this matter be settled once and for all,” he asserted.
His remarks come amid mounting losses for small traders, hoteliers, and roadside vendors in Meghalaya, who are already reeling from the drastic fall in tourist inflows caused by the protests.
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