Shillong, May 29: The Meghalaya Rural Tourism Forum (MRTF) has called for stricter regulations requiring tourists to be accompanied by local guides while trekking or hiking in rural and challenging hilly terrains across the state.
“If there is a system in place where whoever comes to Meghalaya will have to take a local guide, it is the best way to do it. Right now, it is voluntary, but having a policy or rule will ensure 100 percent safety for those visiting,” said MRTF President Allan West Kharkongor on Thursday.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh welcomed the suggestion, saying it offers a fresh perspective on improving safety. “So we will incorporate those points. We are extremely cautious about making sure that any travel plans to Meghalaya are free of the risk of disaster,” he stated.
He added, “But again, we had issued advisories months ago on the do’s and don’ts, and people should keep this in mind. Tourism is a community-based activity. It is not just the government’s responsibility. We own very few of the destinations. In fact, most of them are owned by private individuals or the local community. The government is there to support.”
The call for stricter regulations comes amid growing concerns over safety, especially in remote and less accessible areas of the state that are becoming increasingly popular among tourists.
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