MAPUSA
Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho robustly supported the GoaMiles taxi service in the Goa Legislative Assembly, emphasising its efficiency, affordability, and revenue generation for the government.
Godinho urged the 18,000 traditional taxi operators in the State, who have yet to adopt app-based services, to join platforms like GoaMiles.
Highlighting the impact of GoaMiles, Godinho shared that the 1,560 GoaMiles taxis generate Rs 8.5 crore in business and Rs 1.5 crore in government revenue through GST payments.
“GoaMiles has made business accountable. The 18,000 taxis not yet in the system do not pay tax or GST to the government. They should join the app, even if it’s a new one,” he asserted.
Responding to Pernem MLA Pravin Arlekar’s concerns about the impact of GoaMiles on local drivers at Mopa airport, Godinho informed that 510 vehicles are registered under GoaMiles at the airport.
He stated that 95 per cent of these drivers are Goans, with 80 per cent hailing from nearby villages like Pernem, Mandrem, and Dhargalim.
Godinho underscored the popularity of GoaMiles, noting that 55 lakh passengers have used the service. “Today, Goans prefer GoaMiles because they are reliable and cheaper. There is a choice for the people,” he said.
Despite several MLAs, including Yuri Alemao, Vijai Sardesai, Michael Lobo, and Carlos Ferreira, wanting to discuss the issue further, time constraints prevented an extended debate.
Alemao and Sardesai called for a half-hour discussion on the sensitive topic, but it was not allowed.
CM Pramod Sawant promised to convene a separate meeting with all stakeholders to address the matter.
