Calls on MLAs to think of State rather than constituency alone
PANAJI
Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho has raised serious concerns over the growing negative perception of Goa as a tourist destination, blaming, in part, the ongoing issues with local taxi operators. Speaking on Prudent Media’s Head On, the minister warned that complaints regarding taxis, if unaddressed, could cripple the State’s tourism-dependent economy.
“Tourist footfall has already decreased... I am not sure if there will be good footfalls this season. The biggest problem is the taxis. It’s all over social media... There are viral posts and reviews from disgruntled tourists,” he said, indicating taxi operators’ rude behaviour, overcharging and resistance to aggregators.
He, however, clarified that taxi operators were not the only factor contributing to Goa’s tourism woes.
“Even airlines are charging exorbitant prices and hotel rates are also increasing. All stakeholders need to think whether we are killing the goose that lays golden eggs,” he said.
Godinho further made a pointed appeal to local stakeholders, especially MLAs, to prioritise the State’s broader interests over narrow constituency politics.
“Some MLAs are focused only on their constituencies because of pressure from local taxi unions. I have taken a risk by speaking on this thinking about the State as a whole rather than only a constituency... others should do the same,” he said.
He claimed that taxi unions have been influencing MLAs, who in turn pressure the Chief Minister to act in their favour. “This pattern needs to change. All MLAs must think about the future of Goa. If tourism continues to decline, it will collapse,” the minister warned.
Godinho lamented that Goa, once among the top tourist destinations in the country, is now battling a negative image. “From one of the most preferred destinations, we have gone to this. The real question is how long will it take to remove this negativity,” he asked.
“The people need clarity and only then can we find resolution,” he said, urging unity and responsibility from all players in Goa’s tourism sector.
