Northeast Desk, 22nd September: Meghalaya BJP MLA Sanbor Shullai has called upon Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to intervene and address threats of a goods blockade that could severely impact daily life in Meghalaya. The blockade threat, issued by the All Assam United Motor Transport Association, would halt the transportation of goods, including essential items, to the state.
Shullai condemned the association’s warnings as “highly objectionable” and expressed concern over the potential damage to long-standing inter-state relationships in the northeast. He emphasized the need for an amicable resolution between the transport associations of both states, suggesting that they look to agreements between Sikkim and Darjeeling as a model for cooperation.
The blockade threat originates from concerns raised by the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association. While acknowledging the legitimacy of these concerns, Shullai advocated for mutual understanding between the taxi associations of Meghalaya and Assam, ensuring that both tourists and locals benefit from the outcome.
Shullai further highlighted the importance of boosting tourism services in Meghalaya, urging stakeholders to collaborate in enhancing facilities, rates, and hospitality for visitors. He praised the Conrad Sangma-led government for its initiatives to promote tourism, projecting that Meghalaya could see 5 million visitors annually within the next decade.
Resolving the transport dispute, Shullai stressed, is essential for both states, especially as Meghalaya positions itself to harness its growing tourism potential.
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