The Meghalaya government will examine transport models of states such as Sikkim, Karnataka, and Maharashtra before finalising its approach to regulating tourist vehicles from outside the state.

Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said on Tuesday that the move aims to find a balanced solution acceptable to all stakeholders. The Transport Department, in coordination with Chief Secretary Donald Phillips Wahlang, has been tasked with consulting officials from the three states as well as neighbouring Assam.

Dhar made the remarks after meeting the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA), which has demanded restrictions on Assam-registered cabs ferrying tourists into Meghalaya. The association had launched a protest earlier this month but suspended it after the government assured it would examine the matter.

“The discussion with the association was positive, and both sides agreed that dialogue is necessary. This issue needs careful consideration, and the government is committed to moving forward with patience along with all stakeholders,” Dhar said, urging taxi operators not to resort to fresh protests while talks continue.

The demand for restrictions intensified after a clash between taxi drivers from Assam and Meghalaya at Jorabat, a key entry point to the hill state, disrupted tourist traffic on the Shillong route. Tourism is a vital economic sector in Meghalaya, providing livelihoods for taxi operators, homestay owners, and guides. Local taxi bodies have expressed concern that unrestricted entry of outside vehicles on tourist routes could threaten their income.