MAPUSA: Waste Management Minister Michael Lobo on Thursday said the government should resolve the issue of local taxi operators and GoaMiles in the interest of the local cabbies at the earliest.
“The issue should be handled by Transport Department and the Tourism Department should not interfere. The issue is of Transport Department but the notification is issued by the Tourism Department and that’s the main problem”, he said.
“I have always been vocal about the controversy created by GoaMiles. This question needs to be addressed immediately by the Transport Department. Every second day fights take place and complaints are filed against local taxi owners which is injustice to them”, Lobo said.
“I have explained how to address the issue of local taxi drivers. Basically, the issue of taxi drivers comes under the purview of the Transport Department” he added.
“Currently, the dispute between GoaMiles and local taxi drivers is hitting the taxi drivers in general. We can’t just enjoy being spectators. Action is needed. Tourism Minister Babu Ajgaonkar, says he will never understand the plight of local taxi drivers”, Lobo said.
“I am always with local tourist taxi drivers. Earlier, I have corresponded with the Chief Minister in this regard. If the problem of taxi professionals is to be solved, only the Transport Department should intervene,” he urged.
“How can the Tourism Department issue a notification to have a transport counter? I have suggested a solution to the issue and if implemented, 50 per cent of the issue will be solved,” Lobo added.
