Shillong, Aug 23: The Assam-Meghalaya tourist taxi standoff may finally see a breakthrough.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar on Sunday promised resolution by September 10 after taxi associations blockaded Assam vehicles at Lad Umroi in retaliation for alleged harassment across the border.
After meeting All Shillong Taxi Union and other bodies, Dhar said, “Their problems are genuine.”
Taxi operators told Dhar that Meghalaya cabs are fined heavily in Guwahati for no parking, stopped without reason, and even attacked at Jorabat despite assurances.
Dhar announced a high-level joint meeting by September 10 with Transport Commissioner & Secretary, Home Department, Deputy Commissioners of both states and Assam authorities to thrash out parking, fines and free tourist movement.
On damaged vehicles, Dhar said both sides have withdrawn blockades, and MVI assessment is on. “We have sought details. Everything will be done as per law,” he said.
ASTU president A B Sangma said operators want just one thing — to move freely like before without fear of fines or attacks.
With tourism hit and highways tense after the August 19 fallout, Dhar said normalcy is returning to Shillong and CM Conrad K Sangma will take the final call.
