Shillong – In a significant move to bolster tourist safety, Meghalaya has made it compulsory for all visitors undertaking outdoor activities in the East Khasi Hills district to engage registered guides. The directive comes amidst mounting concerns, particularly in the wake of the high-profile murder of an Indore businessman in Sohra, an incident that sent ripples across the state.
The recent order, issued by East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Rosetta M. Kurbah, aims to preempt untoward incidents in the region’s often remote and less-monitored locales. Kurbah, who also chairs the District Tourism Promotion Society (DTPS), explicitly referenced the shocking murder of Raja Raghuvanshi during his honeymoon in Sohra, an alleged plot by his wife that led to eight arrests from Indore. This case, she noted, underscored the urgent need for heightened security measures.
According to the Deputy Commissioner, mandatory guide services will not only shield visitors from potential criminal activities but also mitigate risks of getting lost or sustaining injuries in isolated areas. The administration is committed to strict enforcement of the new rule, with potential penalties or denial of access to trekking routes for violators. Plans are also afoot to significantly increase the number of trained guides and collaborate closely with local communities for effective implementation.
The East Khasi Hills, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty including the iconic double-decker living root bridge, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque meadows, attracts a substantial number of trekkers. The tourism department has underlined the critical importance of these enhanced safety protocols to safeguard the state’s reputation as a tranquil and secure tourist haven. Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh has expressed optimism about the sector’s growth, projecting around two million tourist arrivals this year. The department is also gearing up for a vibrant calendar of events, including the much-anticipated Cherry Blossom Festival, which will feature international artists in the state capital.
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