Taxi owners from Panaji, Taleigao, and St Cruz met with Panjim MLA and Minister Babush Monserrate to voice strong opposition to app-based taxi services in Goa. The meeting highlighted growing tensions among local taxi operators over the increasing presence of digital platforms in the transport sector.
During the discussion, Minister Monserrate expressed support for the traditional taxi operators, stating that rent-a-car and rent-a-bike services should be shut down immediately. "The moment these operations stop, all taxi operators will benefit," he asserted.
He also pointed out that a large portion—around 90%—of taxi drivers operating in Goa are non-Goans, and encouraged local taxi owners to adapt by launching their own app-based service to remain competitive in the changing landscape.
The minister’s remarks underscore the growing friction between legacy taxi operators and emerging tech-driven transport solutions in the state.