PANAJI:
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao on Friday urged the government to proactively come forward with a solution to protect and safeguard our traditional 'Motorcycle Pilots' in case a ban is ordered on this business.
Referring to the ban on bike taxis in Karnataka following the High Court order, Congress leader Yuri Alemao said that traditional 'Motorcycle Pilots' should not suffer in such cases.
"Taking note of the Karnataka High Court's order regarding bike taxis and its potential impact on livelihoods, the Goa government should proactively come forward with a solution to protect and safeguard our traditional 'Motorcycle Pilots'. They need to be insulated against any order of ban from the courts," he said.
Alemao stated that the government should recognise this traditional Motorcycle Pilot service as a legitimate business where thousands are self-employed.
"Motorcycle pilots in Goa, or bike taxis in other states, have been a cheaper option for commuters, and hence the service is widely used. Goa is well-known for its traditional and unique motorcycle pilots," he pointed out.
"Courts are banning this service mainly due to the absence of a clear regulatory framework for bike taxis. A ban adversely affects the lives and livelihoods of thousands of self-employed individuals in a traditional business that has stood the test of time," he said.
"Our Goemkar 'Motorcycle pilots' are known for their trust and hospitality. They number in thousands, and their families are dependent on this income. Hence, the government should tackle this issue in advance, filling any gaps that might invite adverse intervention by the courts," Alemao added.
"I will raise this issue in the forthcoming assembly session and seek the support of all MLAs to save the livelihood of our traditional motorcycle pilots," he said.
