It is sad to see outsiders from other states slowly taking over the taxi business of Niz Goenkars, with backing from politicians. Recently, I booked a taxi from the Taj India Tours counter at Dabolim airport. After paying the fare, the driver forced me to pay Rs 50 extra at the toll gate. He did not even know the route to Chandor, and I had to guide him. Instead of thanking me, he demanded a tip for poor service. The taxi was unsafe, with scratches, a damaged boot, and water leakage that spoiled my luggage. The driver, from Karnataka, was talking on his phone in Kannada while driving. At the airport, I noticed many taxi drivers speaking in Kannada, showing how outsider groups are increasing. This is hurting local drivers. Are they being supported as vote banks by some MLAs, while Goans are ignored? Goan taxi drivers know English, Hindi, and Konkani, and they know Goa’s routes well. They provide safe service to tourists. Outsiders, however, are demanding tips and looting travellers. Goans must support our taxi drivers, who are working hard to protect their families and our traditional business.
