PANAJI: The rampant misuse of rent-a-cars and rent-a-bikes is a major contributor to road accidents in Goa, said Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, warning that over 70% of road crashes are linked to drunk driving and traffic violations by tourists and migrants using rented vehicles.
Speaking at the inauguration of a state-of-the-art Traffic Police Cell in Fatorda today, Sawant stressed the need for stricter checks and greater adherence to road safety norms. “Tourists and migrants often flout traffic rules when using rented vehicles,” he said, adding that enforcement and public cooperation must improve to curb rising fatalities.
Goa records at least 365 road accident deaths annually, averaging one fatality a day. With the highest people-to-vehicle ratio in the country, the Chief Minister cautioned that road violations and deaths will only increase unless urgent measures are taken.
Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Prabodh Shirvoikar revealed that over 500 private vehicles were found illegally operating as rent-a-cars and rent-a-bikes. “We are initiating cancellation of registration for such vehicles,” he said.
The Fatorda facility is Goa’s 17th dedicated Traffic Police station and is equipped with real-time surveillance, advanced coordination systems, and community engagement mechanisms.
Highlighting the significance of the new unit, Sawant said, “We are investing in infrastructure to safeguard lives. This Traffic Police Cell will strengthen traffic management, ensure public safety, and enable real-time monitoring.”
To tackle long-term misuse of public spaces, the Chief Minister announced action against abandoned vehicles and illegal roadside garages. “Vehicles parked along roadsides for over eight days will be towed to the government scrapyard; no claims will be entertained. Roadside garages encroaching on public land will also be cleared,” he said.
Calling for greater reliance on public transport, Sawant said, “We are developing a village-to-industry public transport network to reduce congestion. Citizens must support and make use of public transport.”
Meanwhile, plans are underway to address congestion at the accident-prone Verna Junction. “We have proposed an overbridge or elevated corridor. An inspection has already been carried out by the PWD, and the proposal is in process,” SP Shirvoikar confirmed.
