Team Herald
VASCO: On Thursday, representatives of three taxi unions submitted a memorandum to Vasco MLA Krishna ‘Daji’ Salkar, expressing their frustration over the lack of a fair system for securing business at key transportation hubs, including Dabolim Airport, Vasco Railway Station, and Mormugao Port.
In their memorandum, the unions listed the challenges faced at these locations, especially at the cruise terminal at Sada-Harbour, where the absence of a proper queue system has led to an uneven distribution
of business. This, they claim, has left many taxi drivers struggling to make ends meet.
Acknowledging the grievances of the taxi unions, Salkar stressed the importance of ensuring that no single group monopolises the business opportunities at these transport hubs. “Just because the railway station is in the Vasco constituency, it doesn’t mean it’s my personal property. Every taxi operator deserves a fair opportunity to work from these places,” Salkar remarked.
He assured the taxi representatives that he would personally raise their concerns with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. The unions also complained about the increasing competition from buses, which they say take away potential customers at the Mormugao cruise terminal whenever international cruise ships dock.
In response, Salkar advocated for a proper queue system to be implemented, not just for taxis but for all tourism-related activities, including water sports. “We need a system that guarantees fairness and transparency, giving everyone a fair chance to earn their livelihood,” he added.