Taxi operators across North and South Goa have come together to strongly oppose the newly proposed Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, which aim to regulate app-based taxi services. The draft policy allows drivers to join any aggregator platform operating at government-approved fares, a move that unions claim threatens their traditional livelihoods and business model. They point to persistent issues with the government-supported GoaMiles app as proof that aggregator systems are unsuitable for Goa’s unique transport ecosystem.
The guidelines, issued by the state transport department, seek to bring uniformity to taxi services, enhance commuter convenience, and offer benefits like health insurance and EV subsidies, especially for women drivers. Despite these incentives, local taxi unions remain deeply skeptical, alleging that the policy is a veiled attempt to corporatize the sector. They argue that the entry of multiple aggregator platforms will create more confusion and conflict on the ground.
Taxi unions have vowed not to participate in any app-based system and are demanding the preservation of their autonomy and traditional operating methods. Although the government has opened a 30-day period for public feedback and insists that the policy is meant to protect both drivers and passengers, the unions' fierce resistance underscores the massive hurdles facing its rollout.