The Central government’s decision to allow private motorcycles as taxis through aggregator platforms could open new avenues for Goa’s transportation landscape, especially when the government is aiming to bring about a transformation. However, there are inherent concerns over the traditional "motorcycle pilots" who are currently fighting a battle for survival.
The Motor Vehicles Aggregator Guidelines (MVAG) 2025 issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) enable state governments to permit aggregators to operate non-transport motorcycles for carrying passengers and also to levy authorisation fees on a daily, weekly, or fortnightly basis. The objective, according to the Ministry, is to encourage affordable mobility, reduce urban traffic congestion, cut down vehicular emissions, and provide new livelihoods.
This regulatory clarity comes as a relief for companies like Rapido and Uber, which have long operated in a legal grey zone, often facing sudden bans and regulatory pushbacks. Karnataka, for instance, had recently prohibited bike taxi services, sparking public outcry and protests.
The move brings about inclusive mobility solutions and opens the door to more affordable transportation options for millions, especially in underserved and hyperlocal areas. Goa, however, faces a dilemma because it directly impacts the traditional "motorcycle pilots".
The ball would however be in the Goa government's court since the new guidelines come with a rider that implementation remains a choice of individual States. For decades, Goa's "motorcycle pilots" have offered informal, unregulated services, often facing stiff competition from rent-a-bike operations besides other ride options. Aggregator-based bike taxis would undoubtedly offer more reliable, safer, and convenient alternatives, but this could lead to the gradual extinction of traditional "motorcycle pilots", who are currently struggling with issues like a lack of formal recognition, insurance, and safety standards.
While one may argue there are positives here too and that an aggregator system offers a pathway for these traditional "pilots" to formalise their livelihoods, however, given the visible reluctance against tech-driven change, this looks to be a remote possibility.
It would be very interesting to see how the transport department moves, especially because currently it has been cracking down on private vehicles used to ferry tourists. Fines have been imposed and vehicles seized. Will the State government selectively decide against the guidelines, at a time when it is pushing the pedal for aggregator-based services? Or whether the state government would recalibrate its approach. The transition from a prohibitionist to a facilitative stance could be crucial for realising the benefits envisaged by the MoRTH guidelines.
While the guidelines may deal a telling blow to "motorcycle pilots", the regulatory shift offers a unique opportunity for Goa to position itself as a transport-friendly destination. Given the tourism backlash faced in recent times over inconsistent taxi fares, the State has been increasingly exploring aggregator-based travel services, aiming to iron out issues, improve last-mile connectivity, and promote sustainable mobility. Embracing bike taxis can complement existing transport options like rentals and public transit, making travel more affordable and accessible, especially in tourist-heavy localities, plus it aligns with Goa’s broader tourism goals. However, in a desperation for change, the State should not isolate those who have shouldered traditional businesses all along.
The new guidelines provide an avenue to improve its transportation sector, but there has to be a collaborative approach to harness opportunities and create a more sustainable, inclusive, and dynamic mobility ecosystem.
