Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Sep 18: The Goa Directorate of Transport has withdrawn the vendor empanelment system for digital fare meters and vehicle location tracking devices (VLTDs), giving taxi operators the freedom to purchase devices from any certified source.

Earlier, taxi operators were restricted to purchasing digital meters from two authorised dealers and tracking devices from three empanelled agencies, a move that often led to higher costs. The new policy allows operators to procure devices from the open market, provided they comply with technical and legal standards.

“This reform gives taxi operators the freedom to choose certified devices while ensuring compliance with all safety and metering standards,” said Transport Director Pravimal Abhishek.

Under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, all public service vehicles must have tracking devices with emergency buttons. Similarly, under the Goa Motor Vehicle Rules, all taxis must have fare meters tested and certified by the legal metrology department. Any AIS-140 compliant VLTD with an emergency button and any certified fare meter will now be valid for use.

While the vendor choice is now unrestricted, authorities emphasised that all vehicles must continue to meet the technical and safety requirements as mandated by law.