Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant has asserted that the State government will go ahead with the introduction of a taxi aggregators’ app, despite criticism and resistance from sections of taxi operators.
Speaking at the High-Level Roundtable Conclave on “Reimagining Goa@2037: Shaping a Sustainable and Digitally Connected Tourism Future”, organised by the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) in collaboration with Chase Advisors, Sawant said that in a tourism-driven state like Goa, app-based transport is the only viable solution in the digital era.
“We are ready to take any bold decision in the interest of the State. We are ready for criticism and backlash…we are used to it…but in the larger interest of the State and for future tourism, some decisions have to be made,” Sawant said, adding that a final solution will be worked out soon.
The Chief Minister underlined that the government is in the process of finalising the Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines 2025 and assured that the framework will address concerns of all stakeholders. He also stressed that the government would continue engaging with taxi operators to bring them into the digital fold, but said resistance will not deter the State from implementing reforms.
Sawant further pointed out that Goa is already progressing towards becoming a digitally enabled state, with over 240 services available online. “Digital connectivity and sustainable practices will define Goa’s tourism future, and modern transport solutions are central to this vision,” he remarked.
Industries and Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho, GCCI President Pratima Dhond, the Director of Transport, and industry stakeholders were also present at the conclave.
