Normalcy returning to Meghalaya, tourism picks up: Minister

Shillong | Monday | 18th June, 2018

Summary:

"The authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the situation is under control," Metbah said. More than 10 people, including policemen and CRPF personnel, were injured in the clashes. Federation of Shillong Hotels' general secretary A M Lanong said that as the hill city returns to normalcy, tourists are slowly flocking the state again in view of the summer break.The Meghalaya Rural Tourism Forum (MRTF) has appealed to the state government, seeking removal of the 48-hour suspension of mobile Internet services since June 16. SHILLONG: Meghalaya is still a favourite among tourists and the improving law and order situation in Shillong , which witnessed tension early this month, has brought about "positive vibes", aiding tourist inflow, according to state Tourism Minister Metbah Lyngdoh.Clashes in the first week of June between Khasis and Sikhs in the city's Punjabi Lane area had briefly affected tourism in Shillong, popularly known as 'Scotland of the East'. MRTF chairman Alan West said the suspension has affected the livelihood of people dependent on Internet connectivity across the state.The Tourism minister said the Meghalaya government is firm in dealing with the situation, which arose due to an altercation between Sikh residents in the city's Punjabi Lane area, and Khasi drivers of state-run buses..