Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Sep 19: In a bid to promote eco-friendly mobility, the Goa Motorcycle Taxi Rider’s Association has announced a pilot scheme providing 50% financial support for the first 500 members opting for electric bikes.

Association president Suresh Thakur clarified that this is not a government initiative. “With each electric bike costing around Rs 80,000, we have sought CSR funding to cover half the expenses per vehicle. We aim to launch these bikes by December,” he said.

Goa has approximately 2,000 registered motorcycle pilots, and the scheme is open to both existing and new riders. The association hopes the initiative will attract younger pilots to join the sector, as a significant portion of current riders are aging. “We will also assist new pilots in obtaining the necessary permits to operate legally in Goa,” Thakur added.

The association has partnered with manufacturers to develop customised electric bikes suited for taxi operations, addressing concerns like seat height and battery life. Plans are also in place to install EV charging stations at all motorcycle taxi stands across the state.

Servicing and maintenance of the bikes will be the responsibility of the individual pilots. The association is set to hold a meeting on Saturday to finalise the scheme’s execution and operational details.