SHILLONG — Meghalaya is moving to tighten the rules around transport aggregator apps, but it is not closing the door on app-based taxis. Instead, the state wants to build its own platform.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said transport aggregator apps operating without the required state approval are “technically illegal”, as the Cabinet approved the Meghalaya Integrated Transport Society (MeITS) to create an integrated transport platform.
The proposed platform will allow citizens and tourists to book buses, taxis and helicopter tickets through a single online system, with other tourism-related services to be added gradually.
Sangma acknowledged that strict enforcement against private aggregator services would make little sense without providing another option to passengers and transport operators.
“We realized—to be very frank—while we do that, being strict and not giving an option is not making sense,” he said.
Asked about apps such as Rapido, the Chief Minister was direct:
“Technically, it’s illegal.”
The government now wants transport operators to move onto the MITS platform, which Sangma said would provide a legal framework while offering competitive rates and greater safety.
The Cabinet’s decision effectively puts the state on a different track from private aggregator platforms. Rather than allowing an unregulated app-based market to develop around Meghalaya’s taxis, the government is seeking to establish its own regulated digital system.
MeITS is expected to bring different modes of transport onto one platform, allowing users to access bus, taxi and helicopter bookings without relying on separate systems.
The Cabinet also approved a dedicated Civil Aviation Wing or Cell within the Transport Department as Meghalaya prepares for a wider aviation network. Sangma said the new structure is required with the expansion of the Umroi Airport runway and expectations of larger flights operating from the airport.
The proposed activation of Baljek Airport after the Airports Authority of India takes over, along with new helipads across the state and the development of helicopter tourism, will add further responsibilities to the aviation sector.
Dedicated officials will be assigned to the new civil aviation wing to oversee these developments.
