MAPUSA
The Working President of Goa Forward Kiran Kandolkar on Thursday said the government should stop the Apna Bhada app-based taxi service in the State in the interest of local taxi owners.
According to Kandolkar, Transport Minister Mauvin Godinhho had recently stated that no permission was given to the app-based taxi service provider Apna Bhada in the State.
He said what was shameful was the statement issued by the in-charge of the Apna Bhada, Murthuza Ali, who belittled the government, stating that it did not require any permission of the State government or the ministers.
“So permissions are only for Goan taxi-owners? And outsiders can come and do whatever they want? The language used by the Apna Bhada in-charge was very disgracing and lowering the dignity of Goans,” Kandolkar said.
He said the Apna Bhada taxi service was launched in the State in April-end.
“Nobody dared to stop them and on the contrary, the State government gave them a red carpet welcome to start operations in the State,” he said.
The GFP working president said that Goa taxi owners have been protesting for the last several months demanding the scrapping of GoaMiles app-based taxi service.
“For the last one-and-half years, our taxi drivers and other small-time businessmen have been facing tough times to earn a living. But because of the irresponsibility of the government, the second wave struck Goa and the ensuing curfew has further destroyed livelihoods,” Kandolkar said.
He said Goan taxi owners who depended on tourism were left high and dry but instead of helping them, the government is bringing more app-based taxis.
