App based taxi service soon to be started in Goa, government stays firm on decision of creating a mobile app

Goa government has said that it will come up with a mobile application, which will be the common platform for all whole taxi industry of the state. State Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte and State Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho met with CM Pramod Sawant to talk about the matter.

The issue was raised during the last Legislative Assembly session, during which the government clarified the app.

One who lands in Goa at Dabolim airport, whether he or she wants to travel by taxi, bus, rickshaw, or motorcycle pilot can choose the mode of transport through this app. It will give last-mile connectivity.

But the minister has also expressed his fear that Dabolim airport might shut down if local taxi operators failed to support app-based taxi services.

The app-based taxi services would operate from locations like GTDC hotels spread across the state, the airport, the Mormugao Port Trust jetty where vessels anchor, and St Monica Jetty in Panaji cruise, among other spots.

GTDC’s Managing Director Nikhil Desai on Monday said the taxi operators, who hold license to run cabs in Goa, were eligible to register for the new transport service which will be launched shortly.

The Minister said that Ola and Uber should be allowed to operate in Goa with full police protection for their operations. “The public transport system in Goa is highly inefficient and not convenient. It is a nightmare for elderly people, especially those staying alone. Also, rickshaws and motorcycle pilots are available at very few spots. Affordable app-based taxis will result in less drunken driving, mitigate parking issues and result in more efficient use of vehicles,” he said. Therefore app-based taxis must be introduced in Goa – said the minister.