App-based taxis in Goa: Will they finally hit the road?
In a significant move, the Goa state government has introduced draft guidelines to regulate app-based taxi services, potentially paving the way for private aggregators to operate in the state.
This development has sparked strong opposition from local taxi unions, who fear that the entry of such platforms could threaten their livelihoods.
The proposed "Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines, 2025," which were released on May 20, provide a framework for regulations governing bike taxi and app-based taxi services. Mandatory health insurance for drivers, set tariffs, and licensing costs are important clauses.
According to the criteria, aggregators are required to guarantee that drivers receive the entire fare prescribed by the government, without any deductions, and that payments are fulfilled within 72 hours.
For aggregators that hire female drivers, incentives like insurance reimbursements and waivers of renewal fees are also suggested.
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Tourists have long criticised Goa's taxi services for arbitrary and high fares.
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The introduction of app-based services is seen by many as a means to bring transparency and competitive pricing to the market. Local taxi unions counter that these services would attract drivers from other states, which would hurt local businesses. "We will not allow these aggregators to come in," said a representative of the All Goa Tourist Taxi Owners Association, who voiced concerns about job losses and the possible loss of local identity.
He added that they might come out on the streets and protest.
While the state-backed app-based service GoaMiles was launched in 2018, its reach and impact have been limited. The current draft guidelines are open for public feedback for 30 days from the date of publication.
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According to a government official, the recommendations are designed to strike a compromise between safeguarding the interests of local drivers and the convenience of app-based services.
However, the ultimate result of the discussion will rely on the input obtained and the government's capacity to address the concerns of all parties concerned.
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