Team Goemkarponn
FATORDA: A delegation of traditional taxi operators from across Goa met with Fatorda MLA and Goa Forward Party President Vijai Sardesai to express their strong opposition to the recently notified Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines 2025, published in the Official Gazette on May 20. The operators raised concerns over the perceived threat these guidelines pose to their livelihoods and the absence of stakeholder consultation before their introduction.
After listening to the delegation, Sardesai voiced strong criticism of the government’s unilateral approach. “During the last Assembly session, there was a clear consensus that any major regulatory change in the taxi sector would involve consultations with stakeholders. That assurance has clearly been violated,” Sardesai said.
He also took the opportunity to highlight the government’s history of failed transport reforms. “The government earlier brought in meters, speed governors, GPS tracking devices — all of which failed. Only the suppliers and certain ministers benefitted. Are these new guidelines also aimed at benefiting ministers?” he questioned.
Sardesai raised serious concerns about the lack of regulation over the entry of transport aggregators into the state. “There is no clarity on how many cab aggregators will be allowed. Aggregators from across India can now enter Goa. Is this the model of tourism we want?” he asked.
He underscored the importance of preserving Goa’s unique cultural identity and promoting local employment. “Tourists come to Goa for its identity and Goan hospitality. If tourism is handed over to outsiders, what remains of our identity? Traditional Goan taxi drivers — sons of the soil — know Goa best and must be the first beneficiaries of Goa’s tourism economy.”
At the same time, Sardesai acknowledged the need to ensure that tourism services remain affordable. “The cost of tourism services cannot become so inflated that tourists stop coming to Goa. We must strike a balance,” he cautioned.
The Goa Forward Party president assured the taxi operators that the party would closely examine the new guidelines and submit formal objections and recommendations. He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of Goan taxi drivers and promoting a responsible tourism policy.
