Shillong, Aug 21 — Commercial taxi services between Shillong and Guwahati have been suspended by the Meghalaya taxi drivers' association following the recent violence in Shillong, escalating concerns over the safety of passengers and transport operators travelling between the two neighbouring states, officials said on Friday.
The association has also warned that taxi services from Assam to Meghalaya could be halted if adequate steps are not taken to address the situation and ensure the safety of drivers and passengers.
The decision comes days after violence erupted in several parts of Shillong during a black-flag bike rally organised by the Khasi Students' Union (KSU) as part of its agitation over a five-point charter of demands.
The rally turned violent, with police reporting attacks on vehicles, damage to public property and assaults on civilians.
At least two government vehicles were set ablaze, while several other vehicles were damaged. Assam-registered vehicles and tourists were among those allegedly targeted during the unrest.
An Assam family travelling to Shillong was also allegedly attacked during the violence, with their vehicle vandalised and a child injured by broken glass.
The incidents triggered anger among transport operators in Assam and Meghalaya. On Thursday, Assam-based cab operators blocked Meghalaya-registered vehicles at Jorabat and Khanapara, disrupting traffic on the busy Guwahati-Shillong route and leaving passengers stranded near the interstate border.
The latest decision by the Meghalaya taxi drivers' body is expected to further affect commuters, tourists and businesses dependent on regular connectivity between Guwahati and Shillong.
The developments have also raised concerns about the potential impact on Meghalaya's tourism sector, with tourism and hospitality organisations condemning the violence and warning that safety concerns could discourage visitors.
Meghalaya Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma, has spoken to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over the incidents.
Both governments have agreed to work together to restore peace, trust and normalcy, amid growing tensions along the interstate border.
The Meghalaya government has also taken steps against those accused of involvement in the violence, with three senior KSU leaders arrested in connection with the incidents.