Goa to Unveil Taxi Policy by September 10
New Rules to Tackle Overcharging Woes
In a bid to address longstanding issues of overcharging, transparency, and safety in Goa’s taxi sector, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced that a comprehensive state taxi policy will be drafted by September 10, 2025. The decision follows a high-level meeting with taxi operators and key officials at the Mantralaya in Porvorim on August 22, where stakeholders voiced concerns about the current system and the impact of unregulated fares on tourism.
Speaking to reporters, Sawant emphasized, “I’ve heard all the issues raised by taxi operators. The state policy will focus on transparency, security, and rate rationalization.” The new policy will replace the draft Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines issued in May 2025, which faced backlash from local taxi unions for potentially favoring app-based services like Ola and Uber. “Once the state policy is notified, the aggregator guidelines will cease to exist,” Sawant confirmed, addressing operators’ fears of external competition.
The meeting included Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho, Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, and coastal MLAs like Michael Lobo, who pushed for a state-specific framework. Khaunte stressed collaboration, stating, “Tourists and taxi operators are both vital. We’ll ensure all stakeholders are consulted.” Lobo advocated for a policy covering taxis, rent-a-cabs, and rent-a-bikes, governed by a state-run digital platform rather than private aggregators. “We need uniform rates to prevent underquoting or overcharging,” he added, citing complaints that high fares deter tourists.
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Goa’s taxi sector, critical to its tourism-driven economy, has faced scrutiny for inflated pricing, with some reports on X describing fares as high as Rs 1,600 for a 10-km ride. The state assembly revealed last month that Goa has 2,573 All-Goa permit taxis, 13,586 All-India permit taxis, 757 Yellow-Black taxis, and 164 Blue Cabs. To curb overcharging and enhance safety, a 10-member committee led by the deputy director of transport will draft the policy, incorporating inputs from operators. The state also plans to digitize services through platforms like GoaMiles, ensuring fair pricing and accountability.
The move comes amid a push to restore tourist confidence, with 2024 seeing over one crore visitors. Sawant’s administration aims to balance local livelihoods with modern mobility solutions, promising a transparent system that benefits both operators and visitors by September’s deadline.
