Shillong, Aug 26: Members of the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA) staged a sit-in-demonstration on Tuesday demanding the state government to formulate a policy that prioritises local taxis in tourist destinations.
The association has been demanding a policy to restrict tourist taxis from outside the state from operating in Meghalaya’s tourist spots for the past two years.
President of the association Recaldinus Dohling expressed frustration over the government’s inaction, despite repeated meetings and assurances. He stated that the association had met with ministers and officials, including the Chief Minister on June 25, but these meetings yielded no satisfactory results.
Dohling criticised the government for being quick to formulate a policy for private vehicle owners while neglecting the interests of local taxi drivers, who pay higher taxes. “We urge the government to listen to our suggestions and take concrete actions to address our concerns,” he said.
Dohling warned that if the government fails to address their concerns, they may be forced to create their own rules and policies. “The government should not be biased. If it is ready to come up with a policy for private vehicles, then it should also be ready to formulate a policy that will address our problem,” he added.
The association questioned the effectiveness of the PRIME scheme, which provides vehicles to local drivers. Dohling cited instances of confiscation of vehicles within a short period, stating, “Over 53 drivers were sanctioned with vehicles under the PRIME scheme. However, they have informed me that their vehicles have been confiscated within two to three months.”
Dohling stated that such schemes are not benefiting local drivers and instead advocated for a policy to ensure only local tourist taxis are allowed to take tourists to different destinations.
