MAPUSA
In a State globally known for its hospitality and laid-back vibe, a simmering battle over taxi services is threatening to disrupt the tourism ecosystem.
As the Goa government makes a renewed push to bring in app-based taxi and bike services through newly released draft guidelines, traditional tourist taxi operators are united in their opposition – citing distrust, economic impracticality and fears of corporate takeover.
Despite efforts spanning years, including persuasion, policy tweaks and regulatory drafts, the State government finds itself locked in a deadlock with taxi unions who refuse to embrace app-based services.
While the world moves toward digital convenience, Goa’s taxi operators remain adamant: they do not want aggregators in the State – by hook or by crook.
Local resistance
The government’s recent draft guidelines aim to bring transparency and accountability into Goa’s disorganised taxi sector. The draft proposes time-bound payments to drivers (within 72 hours), government-set fares and attempts to streamline operations. But the move has found no takers among the local taxi community.
“There is no need for a new system. For years we have run a smooth operation. The issues began only after the introduction of app-based taxis,” said Yogesh Govekar alias Mogambo, one of the more vocal voices representing the tourist taxi operators.
He accuses the government of working hand-in-glove with corporate aggregators, offering them a "red carpet welcome" while ignoring the interests of local operators.
Govekar also alleges that a deliberate perception has been created labelling taxi operators as “mafia,” an image he claims is being pushed by government insiders to malign their reputation. “We don’t charge extra. We follow the government-approved rates and maintain our own loyal clientele,” he added.
Economic argument
While the government's argument hinges on digital transformation and improved services, operators point to Goa’s unique geography and demography. Govekar insists that app-based taxis are unviable in Goa due to the small population and uneven tourist demand.
“If I take a ride from Panaji to Canacona, there is no guarantee of a return passenger. That’s why we must charge the return fare. Aggregators can’t change that economic reality,” he argued.
Taxi operator Rohan Kandolkar echoes this concern, warning that the open market approach enabled by aggregators will lead to a race to the bottom.
“If one driver charges Rs 1,200, another may offer the same ride for Rs 800. The aggregator still takes its commission, but the driver loses. This is unsustainable,” he explained.
He maintains that while the operators are open to discussions on technology for fare standardisation and transparency, they will not accept app-based models that involve aggregators.
This sentiment is shared across unions. Savio Goes, Vice President of the North and South Goa Taxi Union, says that Goa’s rural areas suffer from patchy internet connectivity, further challenging the app-based model.
“Unlike metro cities, most locals here have their own vehicles. Apps won’t work in Goa,” he said.
Goes also pointed to the government’s shifting goalposts. “We were asked to install digital meters. We complied. Now they want aggregators. Why change the system without taking us into confidence?” he questioned, adding that operators fear the livelihood of thousands of Goans being handed over to outstation players.
According to Goes, the core issue is not about embracing technology but the perceived betrayal by the government in safeguarding local businesses. “Taxi operations are one of the few businesses still in the hands of Goans. The government’s move appears to favour outsiders,” he added.
Trust deficit
Underlying this resistance is a deep trust deficit between the operators and the government. The taxi operators believe that the draft guidelines serve more as an entry point for corporate players than as a solution to the existing inefficiencies in the sector.
While the government sees technology as a way to reduce tourist complaints and ensure fare transparency, taxi operators view it as a backdoor entry for corporate aggregators with no stake in the local economy. Though many unions have expressed a willingness to engage in talks, they remain resolute in rejecting the app-based aggregator model.
“The government wants us to discuss the draft guidelines, but why should we, when we have categorically rejected the app-based taxi idea?” Govekar asked.
Interestingly, despite internal differences, all taxi unions are on the same page when it comes to opposing aggregators. They are ready to explore reforms that bring transparency and regulate pricing – but not if it means opening the gates to tech giants and outstation operators.
The government, on the other hand, has indicated that it intends to go ahead with its digital transformation push, though it faces a tough challenge in winning the trust and cooperation of the taxi unions.
