Visiting Meghalaya around Christmas? Keep your IDs ready

Shillong: With the Meghalaya government reopening the state to tourists starting December 21, any visitors to the state will need to produce proof of address at the new checkpoint set up at Umling in the Ri-Bhoi district.

Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya Prestone Tynsong on Wednesday assured that the Umling checkpoint will be hassle free for residents as well as for tourists.

To be inaugurated on December 21, the Umling entry point will have about four counters, of which one will be manned by the health department and dedicated to COVID-19 screening. The other counters will be dedicated to registration by the tourists.

“The state government has simplified the process and we will ensure that no inconvenience is caused to the citizens or tourists,” Tynsong said.

Also Read: Meghalaya: Inauguration of Umling entry-exit points postponed

Tourists visiting Meghalaya will need to provide an address proof, mention their destination, the number of days they intend to stay and the accommodation they have opted to avail. They can also register online and upload necessary documents to prove their identity. The system is said to be similar to the inner line permit (ILP) system, which the state government is seeking to implement.

“The tribal or non-tribal permanent residents don’t have to fear if they have valid documents to prove residency in Meghalaya. A voter ID card will be more than enough,” Tynsong said.

Tynsong said the government is in the process of setting up more checkpoints into the state over the next two years. “We have identified a few areas, land has been acquired and process for setting up other checkpoints is underway,” the minister said.