Shillong, August 21, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Commercial taxi services between Shillong and Guwahati have been suspended by the Meghalaya taxi drivers’ association following recent violence in Shillong, raising concerns over the safety of passengers and transport operators travelling between Meghalaya and Assam.
The association has also warned that taxi services from Assam to Meghalaya could be stopped if authorities fail to take adequate measures to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers.
The decision follows violence during a black-flag bike rally organised by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) in Shillong as part of its agitation over a five-point charter of demands. Police reported attacks on vehicles, damage to public property and assaults on civilians during the unrest.
At least two government vehicles were set ablaze and several other vehicles were damaged. Assam-registered vehicles and tourists were among those allegedly targeted.
In one reported incident, an Assam family travelling to Shillong was allegedly attacked, with their vehicle vandalised and a child injured by broken glass.
The incidents prompted a reaction from transport operators in both states. On Thursday, Assam-based cab operators blocked Meghalaya-registered vehicles at Jorabat and Khanapara, disrupting traffic along the Guwahati-Shillong route and leaving passengers stranded near the interstate border.
The suspension of services by Meghalaya’s taxi operators is expected to affect commuters, tourists and businesses dependent on regular road connectivity between the two cities. The developments have also raised concerns over Meghalaya’s tourism sector, with tourism and hospitality organisations condemning the violence and warning that safety concerns could deter visitors.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has spoken to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma regarding the incidents. The two governments have agreed to work together to restore peace, trust and normalcy along the interstate border.
The Meghalaya government has also initiated action against those allegedly involved in the violence. Three senior KSU leaders have been arrested in connection with the incidents.
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