PANAJI: In a move to curb overcrowding and enhance road safety, the Government of Goa has directed the State Transport Authority to stop issuing new licenses and permits under the Rent-a-Cab Scheme, 1989.
The directive, issued via a notification by the Department of Transport on July 16, 2025, has been enforced retroactively from February 24, 2025. The decision has been taken under the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of Section 67 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
Citing concerns over congestion and public safety, the notification clearly states that no further permits are to be granted under the scheme.
In recent years, the unchecked growth of rent-a-cab vehicles has led to increasing traffic congestion, frequent disputes with app-based operators, and a rise in road accidents, particularly in high-footfall tourist zones like Calangute, Baga, and Panaji. Both locals and authorities have repeatedly raised concerns about rash driving and the lack of effective regulation in the sector.
