Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Jan 22: Nearly eight months after the draft Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines, 2025 was published in the official gazette on May 20, 2025, the state government has yet to take a final decision, with 3,802 objections and suggestions still under scrutiny by the transport department.
Officials said the consultation process is ongoing, and all feedback will be carefully examined before the guidelines are finalised and officially notified.
The department received responses from individuals, taxi associations, unions, and other stakeholders, along with 290 letters supporting the draft and urging its early implementation. Soon after publication, parts of the taxi sector opposed the draft, fearing that allowing private app-based aggregators could influence fares and reduce their operational autonomy.
Some political representatives expressed concern that the policy, if implemented without adequate safeguards, could disrupt a sector providing livelihoods to thousands of Goans.
On the other hand, consumer groups, tourism representatives, and individuals highlighted long-standing service gaps such as refusal of rides, lack of fare transparency, and inconvenience to residents and visitors. They urged regulation of app-based services to ensure accountability and better service standards.
Currently, two app-based aggregators, Goa Miles and Goa Taxi App, operate in the state, with 5,506 taxis registered for app-based services. The draft guidelines aim to regulate these platforms while addressing the concerns of local operators.
The draft estimates around 4.19 crore taxi trips annually and suggests that app-based aggregation could reduce reliance on self-driven cars and rent-a-cabs, easing traffic congestion, parking pressure, accidents, and pollution.
To protect local operators, the draft proposes that:
• Only vehicles registered in Goa with valid taxi permits and drivers holding Goa-issued PSV badges can be used.
• Aggregators are barred from charging commissions, with the full fare to be paid directly to drivers or vehicle owners.
• Drivers are exempted from installing digital meters while operating through apps and may operate independently or across multiple platforms.
When asked if the draft could be withdrawn, a senior official said that a decision would be taken in the interest of all stakeholders, after thorough consideration.