PANJIM: As technology for introducing app-based taxi services in Goa is taking shape, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) has invited applications from local tourist taxi operators to register with the app. The service, expected to be launched shortly, will also allow taxis registered with the app to operate as prepaid taxi rides from GTDC counters.
“GTDC invites tourist taxi operators registered within Goa to register their vehicles with the taxi hailing app which is expected to be launched shortly all over Goa. Taxis registered with GTDC on the hailing app will also be allowed to operate prepaid taxi rides from GTDC operated counters – GTDC residencies, MPT jetty counter, airport taxi counter, St Monica Jetty and other counters which will be set up by GTDC at designated spots,” states an advertisement released by GTDC.
Every taxi at a designated location will have to follow the online queuing system based on which a ride will be confirmed/assigned to every taxi operator. As announced by the government earlier, the taxi fares will be as per government – Directorate of Transport – notified rates only.
As per the GTDC draft plan, only taxis registered by December 31, 2017 are qualified to come under the proposed-scheme.
As many as 19 companies, majority of which are startups had shown interest in the GTDC proposal to set up technology for introducing app-based taxi service in Goa. After a go-ahead from the government, GTDC had in January floated an Expression of Interest (EoI) seeking a technology provider.
The app, once in force, will ensure convenience not only to passengers but also taxi operators as those who have no passengers will be given clients while taxi operators on off-duty can put the system off-radar.
