Shillong, Aug 24: Meghalaya’s tourism stakeholders have appealed for peace and unity, expressing confidence that the state will soon welcome visitors back with its famed hospitality.
Meghalaya Rural Tourism Forum president Alan West Kharkongor said while over 80 per cent bookings were cancelled following the recent violence in Shillong, the situation has now improved and the state remains safe and welcoming.
“The situation has improved compared to a few days back. What happened was unfortunate, but Meghalaya is known for the goodness of its people and the beauty of its places. People who visit once keep coming back,” he said.
Kharkongor urged tourists not to be swayed by viral videos of isolated incidents, noting that such incidents happen everywhere and should not define the state or its people.
He said tourism in Assam and Meghalaya is interdependent and both states benefit together. “Meghalaya is blessed with beautiful destinations that attract tourists from across the country and the world, and Assam partners also get business because of that. Tourism flourishes when we work together,” he said.
He appealed that agitations be held in a manner that does not impact society, economy or the state’s image, and stressed dialogue as the way forward.
