Shillong: The Meghalaya govt has issued a series of safety advisories for tourists and operators in the East Khasi Hills district. The move comes amid an increase in visitors on the banks of rivers swollen by pre-monsoon showers and at various adventure spots, which often lead to fatal disasters.The advisory, issued by the office of the deputy commissioner and District Disaster Management Authority, comes in the wake of the death of a teenage tourist girl from Uttar Pradesh. She was swept away by strong currents near Weisawdong Falls in Sohra (Cherrapunjee) after she reportedly slipped while taking a photograph, standing precariously on the waterfall edge.The tourism department has made it mandatory to display site maps, indicating entry and exit points, at tourist spots. “Tourist guides/persons who are working in tourist spots should be trained in basic life saving skills….,” the advisory read.Damaged infrastructure should be rectified immediately, the advisory said, adding that at locations with boating facilities, safety equipment and engines should be ‘visually inspected’ before use and ‘only experienced boat handlers’ should be allowed to hire boats.Tourist spots which allow swimming should have a lifeguard and regular checking of weather forecast from IMD website should be carried out, it said.“Watch the waters at all times as conditions can change dramatically in a short time…,” the advisory said. “Don’t drink alcohol and never fish alone…,” the advisory stated.“Keep First Aid Box, fire extinguishers and emergency lights and display the emergency contact numbers (112/108) for public information,” it added.
