Team Goemkarponn
MOPA: Operations of Blue Cab prepaid taxi services at Manohar International Airport, Mopa, have been suspended effective Tuesday, following alleged non-compliance with mandatory security clearance requirements.
The airport operator, GMR Airports Limited (GAL), cited continued violations of the licence agreement by the Blue Cab Prepaid Taxi Association (BCPTA). In a formal communication addressed to BCPTA President Sanjay Kambli, GAL stated that despite repeated notices and reminders, the association failed to obtain security clearances from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security — a contractual obligation under their licence agreement dated November 23, 2023.
“In light of the persistent breach of the agreement, all operations of Blue Cab at the airport stand suspended from April 15,” said the GAL official heading the Car Park and Ground Transport division. GAL also referred to prior notices issued on June 11, 2024, and January 15, 2025, requesting compliance.
BCPTA has confirmed receipt of the suspension notice and stated that the issue has been communicated to all affiliated operators. The association has begun discussions with relevant authorities in an effort to find a resolution and reinstate services.
The suspension comes shortly after the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) taxi counter at the airport was closed on April 1. That closure prompted intervention by Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar, who held discussions with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, leading to the eventual reopening of the GTDC counter.
The current development has raised fresh concerns among local taxi operators from Pernem taluka, who were granted access to the Blue Cab counter as a means of inclusion in airport transport services. Stakeholders are now hoping for swift intervention and resolution to minimize disruption and economic hardship for local drivers.
