Team Goemkarponn
PORVORIM: A meeting between the Goa government led by Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant and taxi operators on Thursday ended without a final decision on the proposed digital taxi policy, with both sides agreeing to continue discussions through a committee that will examine the concerns raised by taxi associations.
The meeting focused on the government’s proposal to introduce a digital taxi framework aimed at bringing uniformity and transparency in fares across the state. However, several taxi operators expressed reservations over the possible introduction of a third taxi application and insisted that existing apps be scrapped before any new system is implemented.
Taxi associations have demanded that the government first discontinue the GoaMiles app before taking discussions on the new digital taxi policy forward. Representatives said they would also consult members of other associations and gather suggestions and views, which will later be placed before the committee expected to be constituted by the government.
Speaking after the meeting, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo said taxi fares should be uniform and transparent across Goa, with rates made available on a digital platform accessible to the public. He added that some taxi associations have already agreed in principle to the proposal discussed during the meeting.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said the draft Digital Taxi Policy is intended to benefit both taxi operators and tourists and has received a positive response from several stakeholders. He expressed confidence that once the committee is in place, the issues raised by operators can be resolved and the policy framework will move forward. Sawant also referred to an internal meeting of taxi operators scheduled for Monday.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said the concerns raised by taxi associations regarding technology integration had been addressed during the discussions. He said the government’s aim is to bring all taxi operators onto a single platform with uniform fares across Goa.
Khaunte further stated that the Chief Minister has directed the Transport Department to form a committee comprising representatives of taxi associations and government officials. The committee is expected to meet again in about eight days to provide further clarity and continue consultations on the proposed policy.
Taxi operators are expected to hold an internal meeting on Monday before the next round of discussions with the government.
