PANAJI
In a major push to streamline Goa’s tourist taxi operations, the State government has rolled out incentives under the Mukyamantri Taxi Sahaya Yojana, encouraging operators to shift to the Goa App. With a budgetary allocation of Rs 10 crore for the scheme, taxi operators will also receive insurance coverage as part of the initiative.
The transport sector, receiving Rs 339.79 crore in the latest Budget, is also set for a green makeover. The government has announced converting diesel KTCL buses to CNG, complementing the ongoing introduction of electric KTCL buses with 48 already operating in the capital city.
For ageing bus owners, financial relief is on the way. The government has earmarked Rs 10 crore under the Mukyamantri Bus Sahayata Yojana 2024 and Rs 8 crore for the Mhaji Bus Scheme. The Bicholim’s long-awaited bus stand development is finally happening with Rs 6.70 crore set aside for the project.
Goa’s public transport infrastructure is also getting a facelift, with four new bus terminals planned under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Work on the Margao and Vasco bus stands will soon commence.
Further, the Transport Department will soon shift to the Porvorim Housing Board with Rs 6.70 crore allocated for the move.
