Shillong: Meghalaya is seeing a massive surge in tourism that is placing significant strain on the state's most delicate ecological sites. Popular destinations near Sohra, such as Wei Sawdong, Nohkalikai, and Lyngksiar Falls, are facing heavy daily traffic that threatens their environmental integrity.
Reports from the region indicate that hundreds of tourist buses and thousands of private vehicles arrive each day, leading to persistent congestion at major landmarks. There is currently no official mechanism in place to regulate these crowds, raising concerns about the long-term impact on the landscape.
Parambir Singh Sehdave, president of the Federation of Shillong Hotels, highlighted the tension between economic growth and environmental preservation. Regarding the recent trends, Sehdave noted, “The tourist flow in Meghalaya has been quite good this year,” while simultaneously warning that unregulated footfall could cause irreparable environmental damage.
To address the issue, Sehdave suggested that local communities implement variable entry fees. By raising prices during peak hours and lowering them during quieter times, he believes the state could better distribute the volume of visitors across the day. Beyond environmental concerns, the Federation has also contacted the Shillong Police to report instances of tourists being harassed by drug abusers. The organization is seeking an immediate intervention to ensure the safety of visitors in the capital.
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