Tourist taxi operators in the Calangute-Candolim area have urged authorities to curb “unfair competition” from outside taxis illegally parking and conducting business in the coastal belt. Ahead of the tourist season, local taxi owners met the PI of Calangute traffic cell, MLA Michael Lobo, and the panchayat, and submitted a formal complaint to the police, highlighting the disruption caused by taxis from Mapusa, Valpoi, Pernem, and other areas.
According to locals, outside taxis drop passengers in Calangute and park on roads while arranging pickups through taxi apps or hotel contacts, depriving local operators of business. Roads widened for smoother traffic, such as Bhodkovodd junction, are reportedly occupied by long lines of illegally parked vehicles. The MLA assured taxi owners that their concerns would be addressed. “Tourist vehicles cannot park on the roads. The PI has been instructed to monitor outside taxis, and strict action will be taken against illegal parking,” he said.