Commercial taxi services operating between Shillong, Meghalaya, and Guwahati, Assam, have been indefinitely suspended by a prominent Meghalaya taxi drivers' association. The decision, announced recently, stems from growing safety concerns among drivers and operators following a series of violent incidents in Shillong, notably an alleged attack on tourists from Assam during a recent Khasi Students Union (KSU) rally.
The association highlighted the volatile situation in Shillong, where reports indicated damage to several vehicles and injuries to individuals during the KSU rally. These incidents have significantly heightened tensions between taxi operators in both states, prompting widespread protests from driver organizations in Assam and Meghalaya, who are vocal about the safety of passengers and drivers navigating the inter-state route.
Furthermore, the Meghalaya taxi drivers' body has issued a stern warning, indicating that it will cease all taxi services originating from Assam into Meghalaya if the prevailing security situation is not promptly addressed. They have formally demanded that authorities ensure adequate security measures are put in place and that decisive action is taken against those responsible for the recent assaults.
This suspension is expected to significantly disrupt daily travel for numerous regular commuters, business travellers, and tourists who frequently journey between the two key Northeast Indian cities. The ongoing protests underscore the urgent need for a resolution to ensure the safe passage of people and goods across state borders.
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