Pernem taxi operators staged a ‘chakka jam’ to express their frustration over what they perceive as government indifference to their issues. On Thursday, the operators took their grievances to the Pernem Deputy Collector’s office, demanding immediate action.
The protest is in response to difficulties faced by operators despite being issued Blue Cab taxi licenses for Mopa airport. They claim that operational challenges at other counters are impeding their business. The taxi operators are calling for several key changes, including the establishment of a free tourist taxi counter for locals, a cap on parking fees to prevent arbitrary price increases, and the creation of a permanent taxi counter.
Led by former Mandrem sarpanch Amit Sawant, the protestors began their demonstration by offering prayers to Dev Barajan at Mopa before moving to the Pernem police station. As hundreds of operators gathered outside the Deputy Collector's office, DySP Jivba Dalvi attempted to calm the crowd.
The protestors are also calling for the scrapping of the GoaMiles taxi aggregator service, which they believe exacerbates their challenges. The taxi operators clashed with Goa Police outside Pernem Mamlatdar’s office, further intensifying their demands, and have vowed to stay at the site until Chief Minister Pramod Sawant arrives to address their concerns. They have warned that if their issues are not resolved, the situation could escalate into a significant law and order problem, with the government being held fully responsible.
Former Sarpanch Amit Sawant has called for urgent intervention from the Deputy Collector and the organization of a high-level meeting with key officials to tackle these pressing issues. The situation remains tense as operators continue to voice their frustrations and demand justice.
