Daijiworld Media Network - Varca

Varca, Nov 8: Tourist taxi operators from Varca and the Salcete coastal belt have opposed a star-category resort's reported plans to purchase cars and coaches to transport its guests, warning that the move could threaten the livelihood of self-employed local operators. They have threatened to launch a street protest if the management proceeds with the plan.

South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes extended his support to the operators, describing them as brand ambassadors of Goa's tourism industry. He also cautioned ministers, hoteliers and others against referring to local taxi operators as 'mafias', stating that such labelling would no longer be tolerated.

The operators, accompanied by Varca Sarpanch Flavia Barretto, Benaulim Zilla Panchayat member Luiza Rodrigues, Congress block president Keith Gracias, Warren Alemao and other Congress leaders, held a meeting at Varca to discuss the issue. Fernandes was invited following concerns over the resort's reported plans to purchase additional vehicles, apart from those already acquired.

Fernandes reminded the resort management of the contribution made by local taxi operators to the hospitality industry by transporting its guests over the years. He said the resort should not take steps that could displace operators who depend on the business to support their families.

“The resort cannot take steps that displace local tourist taxi operators who depend on this business to earn their livelihood and support their families. The management should stop purchasing vehicles and allow self-employed locals to continue operating in this sector,” he said.

The MP said a coordinated effort would be made to safeguard the interests of the operators. He added that he had raised issues concerning taxi operators in Parliament on three occasions and would now take up their concerns collectively.

Operator representative Savio Goes said the meeting was organised in response to the resort's reported plans to purchase coaches and taxis, which could adversely affect local operators.

“The resort is already operating restaurants, spas and other facilities. We request the management not to interfere in the taxi business, which is the livelihood of self-employed locals,” he said.

Goes warned that the operators, along with the people of Goa, would take to the streets if necessary. Barretto, Rodrigues and Warren Alemao assured the operators of their support.