Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Mar 6: Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday reiterated that the Goa Digital Taxi Policy will be implemented in the coming fiscal year, despite strong opposition from taxi unions.

In his budget speech, Sawant described the policy as “progressive” and said it will benefit both tourists and local residents. “The progressive Goa Digital Taxi Policy, aimed at modernising transport through technology-driven and citizen-centric services, will be implemented from this year,” he stated.

On Thursday, Sawant met with representatives of 36 taxi associations to present the draft policy. Taxi operators insisted that the government first scrap existing platforms like GoaMiles and the Goa Taxi app before discussing the new policy.

In response, the government has formed a four-member committee, headed by the Deputy Transport Director, to address stakeholders’ concerns. The committee is scheduled to meet on Monday to collect inputs from taxi operators.

A spokesperson for the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), Aakash Madgavkar, said, “All apps should be allowed, and there should be affordable and transparent pricing for locals and tourists. Inputs of TTAG and other stakeholders should be considered while formulating this policy.”