Meghalaya govt to connect tourism circuits with helicopter services

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 2, 2024

The state government has decided to soon introduce helicopter services exclusively for movement of tourists to the different circuits across the state.

Informing this on Monday, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh said, “We are concentrating more on the tourism circuits. There is already a proposal to also connect these circuits by air.”

“We are on the initial stage, where we would connect Meghalaya with helicopter services, exclusively for movements of tourists. We will start with Guwahati to Shillong meaning Umroi airport then Umiam, Sohra, Dawki and New Shillong,” he added.

He also informed that the government would also take initiative to improve the road connectivity adding “For instance Mawsynram where we are developing the museum, that will need more investments in the road network.”

Further, the tourism minister said that the footfall of tourists to Meghalaya has crossed 15 lakh this year. According to him, the footfall is expected to increase by 60% in 2025.

“As you are aware the skyscanner, which is a renowned brand, has done a survey and found out that Shillong is the most preferred destination by Indian tourists in 2025. Out of 10 preferred destinations, Shillong has reached number one, meaning by 2025 the increase of footfall would not less than 60%,” he stated.

Meghalaya gets Rs 199 Cr for tourism infrastructure at Umiam and Mawkhanu

Stating this is a major growth story for Meghalaya, Lyngdoh said, “In the past many years, we have not been able to get that kind of recognition…”

He said this time around with the government having successfully being able to sell brand Meghalaya as the ultimate tourism destination, the state has received Rs 199 crore for implementation of two projects and this is not a matter of joke.

Asked, Lyngdoh said, “We are talking in terms of the next fiscal year, we are seeing that increase should not be less than 60% that is why we need to come up with more accomodation units, hotels, resorts and facilities that is what is happening right now.”