Goan taxi operators in discussion with Fatorda MLA and Goa Forward Party President Vijai Sardesai on the Transport Aggregator Guidelines 2025.
Photo Credits: Santosh Mirajkar
MARGAO/PANAJI
Traditional taxi operators from both North and South Goa have opposed the newly notified Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines 2025, accusing the state government of ignoring key stakeholders during its formulation.
A delegation of traditional taxi operators met Fatorda MLA and Goa Forward Party (GFP) President Vijai Sardesai on Monday to raise concerns about the new policy, which was published in the Official Gazette on May 20. The operators said they have always followed the government-approved taxi fare and display the rates clearly at their stands. They added that the government should have consulted them before issuing the new guidelines.
Sardesai expressed serious concern over the way the policy was pushed through without discussions. “There was a clear consensus during the last session of the Goa Legislative Assembly that any major policy or rule change affecting taxi services would involve stakeholder consultations. This assurance given in the House has clearly been violated,” he said.
He sharply criticised earlier transport reforms, such as the introduction of fare meters, speed governors, and GPS tracking devices. “All of these failed. Only the suppliers of these devices and certain ministers profited. Are these new guidelines also aimed at benefiting ministers?” he asked.
Sardesai also questioned the unregulated entry of cab aggregators into the state. “There is no clarity on how many cab aggregators will be allowed. Aggregators from across India can now enter Goa. Is this the model of tourism we want?” he said.
He emphasised that Goa’s tourism industry should primarily benefit locals. “Tourists come to Goa for its unique identity and Goan hospitality. If tourism is handed over to outsiders, what remains of our identity? Traditional Goan taxi drivers — sons of the soil — know Goa best and must be the first beneficiaries of Goa’s tourism economy,” he said.
However, he also acknowledged the need to keep tourism services fairly priced. “The cost of tourism services cannot become so inflated that tourists stop coming to Goa. We must strike a balance,” Sardesai said.
He assured the operators that the Goa Forward Party would carefully examine the guidelines and submit formal objections and suggestions to protect local livelihoods and ensure a fair and inclusive tourism policy.
