Tourists and visitors to the Sohra region should exercise caution as the area braces for the monsoon season. In view of this, the Sohra Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) has issued an advisory, suggesting several safety guidelines.
The advisory comes just days after a Hungarian tourist, who was travelling alone, died in an accident in the Shella area.
Tourists have been urged to exercise extreme caution, especially around water bodies where strong currents and sudden surges can be life-threatening. Swimming in unknown or restricted areas has also been discouraged due to the presence of hidden rocks, deep pools and dangerous undercurrents.
Although rare, drownings in Meghalaya’s rivers and other water bodies are not unheard of, especially when their flow increases after a spell of rain.
The public was also reminded to keep children under close supervision, especially near fast-moving water or unstable edges. Regarding steep places and cliffs, visitors have been advised to stick to marked trails as unstable edges and loose rocks can lead to serious falls.
The advisory said that leaning over cliffs or steep drops poses significant risks, particularly during sudden slips or gusts of wind. To minimise the chances of accidents, tourists have been encouraged to wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as wet and uneven surfaces are particularly dangerous during the monsoon.
In forested areas, the advisory warns against venturing off designated paths. Dense vegetation can hide various hazards, including uneven terrain and wildlife. Visitors have also been urged not to touch unknown plants, which may be thorny or toxic.
For general safety, tourists have been advised to consider hiring certified local guides who are trained to assess and navigate terrain-specific risks. Visitors have also been encouraged to heed all warning signs and barriers, which are put in place for public protection.
Further, they are urged to check weather updates regularly, as heavy rainfall can make many areas impassable and worsen the condition of trails.
To ensure the highest safety standards at popular tourist spots, the advisory said that all designated attractions in and around Sohra must deploy trained lifeguards and safety personnel, particularly at water bodies and other high-risk locations. As per the advisory, such sites have also been required to maintain secure railings and barriers at cliffs and viewpoints, clearly mark trails in jungles and hilly areas to prevent disorientation, prominently display first aid and emergency protocols and keep rescue equipment accessible, especially around water bodies.
In any event of an emergency, tourists can reach out to the Sohra police station at 7638900103 or the Sohra Community Health Centre at 8837360612.
