Himanta proposes Assam tourism alternatives amid Meghalaya row

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has pitched Umrangso, Diphu and Haflong as tourism alternatives to Shillong, amid tensions with Meghalaya over vehicle-related incidents and protests. Speaking in New Delhi on Wednesday, he said these scenic destinations within Assam could attract more tourists and create opportunities for workers in the sector. He predicted Umrangso would eventually rival Shillong, and promised that two proposed airports, at Umrangso and Majuli, would be completed during his tenure.

Sarma said some people in Meghalaya dislike visitors from Assam, citing journalist Patricia Mukhim by name as writing against Assamese tourists. He acknowledged a contradiction: some in Meghalaya welcome Assamese visitors, while others do not, which he said causes periodic tension. The Assam and Meghalaya governments had earlier agreed on safety measures for people and vehicles crossing between the states.