PANAJI
Nearly a month after Chief Minister Pramod Sawant unveiled a scheme to push app-based taxi services in Goa, the proposal is under government review. Sources said the file is still under consideration with a decision likely soon after following mandatory processes.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s announcement during the Budget session of the assembly, made to modernise Goa’s transport network, promised a range of incentives under the “Chief Minister Taxi Assistance Scheme.”
Secretariat sources told The Goan that the government is considering lucrative incentives for tourism taxi operators willing to shift to app-based platforms be it government-approved Goa Miles or Goa Taxi App.
“This scheme proposes providing subsidies for replacing tourism taxis with app-based services in Goa. It would centralise taxi operations on a digital platform for better passenger convenience,” Sawant said last month.
Government sources further stated that benefits under the scheme could include vehicle replacement subsidies, insurance rebates, educational support for owners/ drivers’ children, and even old-age assistance. The scheme may also offer up to 50 per cent subsidy for electric vehicles. However, final approval hinges on the government’s financial assessment of the proposed benefits.
“There is no compulsion. But those who opt-in and operate through recognised apps will be eligible for these incentives,” the source said adding, ‘We want to support the tourist taxi segment but cooperation from operators is also important’.
On social media, several tourists have complained about high fares and unprofessional behaviour due to alleged monopolistic practices by local tourist taxis.
“Goa taxi operators run such a racket. When I stay in a hotel, I can’t call a taxi from anywhere else,” one visitor Narayana wrote on X handle. Another described the local taxi scene as a “mafia” that discourages competition and drives up prices. “Goa taxi mafia is another legend; they don’t allow anybody other than them to ply even on the road,” X-user identified as Dr Ketofol posted.
