The Meghalaya government will examine transport policies from states such as Sikkim, Karnataka and Maharashtra before deciding on measures regarding the entry of Assam-registered tourist vehicles, Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said on Tuesday. He informed that Chief Secretary Donald Phillips Wahlang and senior transport officials have been tasked to consult their counterparts in other states to gather insights.

Dhar made the remarks after meeting the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA), which has demanded restrictions on outside taxis to safeguard local livelihoods. He urged the association to remain patient, emphasizing that the issue requires careful deliberation, dialogue, and stakeholder consultations.

The AKMTTA had recently staged protests seeking a ban on Assam taxis but suspended their agitation after government assurances. Tensions escalated last week following a scuffle between drivers of both states at Jorabat, causing disruptions to tourist traffic.

With tourism being a key pillar of Meghalaya’s economy, Dhar assured that any decision will balance the interests of stakeholders, noting that frameworks from other states will guide the government’s final approach.