PANAJI: The Transport Department will introduce a QR code-based rate card system for taxis in Goa, Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho announced on Thursday, saying the move will reduce dependence on physical meters and repeated visits to government offices for meter-related issues.
Godinho made the announcement while launching the revised taxi fare card at Dabolim International Airport. The new fare structure, introduced after five years, replaces the 2021 fare structure with a point-to-point, distance-based system covering different vehicle categories.
“The director informed me that we decided to introduce a rate card featuring a QR Code for taxis. Previously, you had to track rate-per-kilometer calculations manually; with this QR code, you will not need meters or do frequent meter renewals,” Godinho said.
He said the QR code system is expected to be notified within 15 days and would also benefit taxi operators in North Goa. “Once notified within 15 days, operators will not need to keep visiting agencies for meter issues,” he said.
Under the revised fare structure, the minimum fare for yellow-black taxis for the first three kilometres is Rs 300 for sedans and Rs 400 for SUVs. For distances between 3.1 km and 8 km, the fare is Rs 430 for sedans and Rs 560 for SUVs, followed by an additional per-kilometre charge. A 35% night surcharge will apply between 11 pm and 5 am.
Godinho credited the United Taximen Union Association for raising the demand for the fare revision. “Earlier you brought your demand to me, and the result of how seriously I took it has arrived today. This rate revision was achieved because the United Taximen Union Association represented the matter properly to me,” he said.
Godinho also addressed concerns over the future of Dabolim Airport following the expansion of operations at Manohar International Airport in Mopa, saying both airports would operate simultaneously. “Today, Dabolim Airport handles heavy passenger traffic with incoming and outgoing flights. Both Dabolim and Mopa will operate simultaneously,” he said. “Dabolim will not close because South Goa’s economy and premier hotels depend on it. Efforts are ongoing to welcome charter flights,” he added.
He said rising tourism would increase demand for taxis and said the government was working to improve facilities at Dabolim, including restrooms, parking and overhead passenger bridges.
Godinho also criticised what he described as attempts to spread rumours about the closure of Dabolim Airport. “Certain groups attempt to misguide the public by spreading rumours that Dabolim Airport will shut down,” he said.
He praised members of the United Taximen Union Association for their conduct towards tourists, citing instances where taxi operators had returned bags containing money left behind by passengers. “There have been instances where tourists forgot bags filled with money, and taxi operators honestly returned them without taking anything extra. Your honesty gives me great joy,” he said. He added that the government would continue working with taxi operators on airport connectivity and welfare measures.
