Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Mar 7: A meeting between the Government of Goa and representatives of 36 taxi unions failed to reach a consensus on the state’s proposal to introduce a digital platform aimed at ensuring uniform cab fares and bookings.
Taxi operators insisted that the government first scrap the existing app-based services — GoaMiles and Goa Taxi App — before any discussions on the proposed digital taxi policy could proceed.
Following the discussions, the government constituted a four-member committee headed by the deputy transport director to examine the concerns raised by taxi associations.
Despite the deadlock, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant expressed confidence that a resolution could be reached soon.
“Of the taxi leaders who came for the meeting today, all of them are positive. They will meet on Monday. Step-wise, we will address their concerns,” Sawant said.
However, taxi union leader Yogesh Govekar dismissed the meeting as a “pre-election gimmick”, arguing that the proposed app-based system would harm the livelihood of taxi drivers.
“The app is not feasible. Why would we destroy our livelihood by bringing in an app? The government only wants to bring in the aggregator lobby,” he alleged.
The meeting came a day before Sawant is scheduled to present his final full budget of the current term. In the 2025–26 budget, the chief minister had promised a digital platform that would bring all taxi operators under a single system.
Meanwhile, Chetan Kamat, president of the All Goa Taxi Association, said taxi drivers were not opposed to digitisation but strongly resisted an app-based model.
“No major decision has been taken so far. We asked for GoaMiles and the Goa Taxi app to be scrapped, and then we can discuss other issues. We will not join an app,” Kamat said.
The government maintains that the proposed policy would benefit both taxi operators and tourists by improving transparency, safety and fare uniformity.
Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho said the aim was to create a digital platform with a uniform rate structure and improved data collection.
“This is only a draft policy. If improvements are needed, we will consider them. But taxi operators must realise that moving to a digital platform is in their own interest,” Godinho said, adding that the government would not force operators to adopt the system.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte also stressed the need to resolve the issue, citing criticism of Goa’s transport system on social media.
“If we want to stop the negative perception about Goa, we need the support of taxi operators. Our effort is to bring a digital platform with a fixed rate,” Khaunte said.
The government has asked all taxi unions to submit their concerns, demands and suggestions in writing by Monday to the newly formed committee, which will then prepare a report for further action.