Shillong: Sohra is currently grappling with a massive wave of visitors that has pushed local infrastructure to its limit. Popular attractions such as the Nohkalikai Falls, Wei Sawdong, and the Mawkdok-Dympep valley are seeing heavy crowds, resulting in long waits at eateries and significant traffic bottlenecks. Roadside stalls in Mawkdok have also been filled to capacity as the town struggles to accommodate the sudden spike in foot traffic.
Hoteliers report that the surge is largely due to landslides obstructing the typical route to Dawki, forcing many travelers to pivot to Sohra instead. While some tourists still attempt to reach Dawki through alternate roads in Sohbar or Jowai, the primary flow of traffic remains centered on Sohra.
The lack of consistent traffic regulation has compounded these issues. Observers noted numerous safety violations, including motorcyclists riding without helmets and vehicles using illegal tinted glass. The absence of police oversight has led to chaotic parking habits that further restrict road access. Beyond traffic, some visitors have criticized the service standards at local attractions. One visitor noted that they experienced unprofessional and discourteous behavior by staff at the ticket counter at Wei Sawdong, prompting calls for better training for tourism workers.
To alleviate the strain, travelers are calling on the government to expand public transit options. Many argue that the current fleet of state-run sightseeing buses is insufficient to handle the high volume of visitors making day trips from Shillong.
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