Team Herald
PANJIM: BJP MLAs Michael Lobo and Glen Ticlo demanded an inquiry into the illegal procedure of granting permits for rent-a-car services in the State. Speaking in the Assembly, both the MLAs claimed that Rs 25,000 was asked for each car to acquire a permit. Lobo insisted on knowing Transport Minister Ramkrishna (Sudin) Dhavalikar’s stand on the matter.
Speaking in the Assembly, Lobo said, “I want to know from the minister if there will be any inquiry on illegal procedure to give permits for rent-a-cab services in Goa. Car owners were told to pay Rs 25,000 per car to avail of a permit. He should also tell if rent-a-cab services will be legalised in the State.”
Defending tourist taxi operators, Lobo said, “Out of 100 taxis, if one or two takes extra charges it doesn’t mean that all taxi drivers are bad. Before the start of the next tourist season, the minister should have a meeting with taxi owners and decide on digital meters for taxis.”
Ticlo said, “Few people called me and informed me that they have been asked to pay Rs 25,000 to get a permit. I told them to demand for an authorised receipt of the payment, which they failed to produce. I request the minister to inquire about the illegal process of giving a permit for rent-a-cab at Rs 25,000 per car.”
Meanwhile, legislators highlighted the shortage of water, in their respective constituencies. Sanguem MLA Subhash Phaldesai said, “Sanguem locals are facing water shortage. There are no files moved to improve the water shortage. I need an explanation on this matter from the minister.”
Speaking on the situation in Calangute, Lobo said, “There is a lot of water scarcity in Calangute. Water comes only for one hour. Distribution of water is not proper. I want to know when the 5 MLD water plants will be ready in Guirim, which will improve the water distribution.”
