Team Herald
PANJIM: Goa’s first ever taxi-app ‘Goamiles’, developed by Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) was launched on Monday. In all 350 taxis are on board to provide a convenient mode of transport to citizens and tourists.
This is also the first government-initiated radio taxi service in India, which comes at zero cost to the government. The app, managed by local Goan company FROTAMILES Pvt Ltd, was launched by Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and Tourism Minister Manohar Azgaonkar, amidst opposition from the tourist taxi operators.
The cab service has four transport options available, including Hatchback, Sedan, SUV and SUV Classic. All the options will have a standard pricing. The payment for the travel can be made either in cash or using an online service like a debit or credit card.
The app, which sets your pickup and drop locations and allows you to see all available taxis near your location, has an in-built ‘panic’ button to ensure that the safety of passengers isn’t compromised.
The app, which has reported over 6000 downloads, has already garnered the interest of 3000 odd licensed taxi operators. However, being a new initiative, only 350 have been taken on board in the first phase.
Speaking at the launch, Parrikar said that Goa can now take tourists for miles through the new app-based taxi service which will be affordable and give travellers a comfortable journey from the time they arrive till they leave. “The app has the potential to multiply the business two-three times, thus increasing the income of taxi operators,” Parrikar said.
The Chief Minister said the app will ensure that there is no cheating on fare charges as it is fitted with GPS. “I call upon the taxi operators to be part of this app in large number as GTDC charges will be recovered from consumers and drivers will get their full fare,” he explained.
GTDC has set certain do’s and don’ts for drivers like compulsory uniform, no drink and drive, safe drive, etc, which will be monitored. GTDC will maintain random checks and balances physically and digitally, if required the defaulter will be reprimanded.
Azgaonkar said that the service will bring in a revolutionary change in the transportation system for all stakeholders including taxi drivers, tourists and locals. “We have not launched this to challenge anyone. Our aim is to provide the best taxi service and ensure that the service is known across the country for its quality service,” he said.
Pointing to the current opposition from tourist taxi operators, Azgaonkar said, “We are not against anyone. I would urge all tourist taxi drivers across Goa to join this digital system so that Goa does not lag behind other States where such systems are working successfully.”
Indirectly stating that over pricing by taxi operators had got bad name to the industry, the Minister said “This app will help us in putting the taxi system in place. A kind of discipline will be there and this will help us to create an image of best service provider not only in Goa and India but internationally too.”
At the same time, Azgaonkar warned of action against the drivers found indulging in illicit activities or operating against the rules set by GTDC.
GTDC chairman Nilesh Cabral said the service aims to boost the digital economy, enable ease of travel for tourists and give taxi drivers better income.
