HERALD: What compelled TTAG drag the State government in the High Court of Bombay at Goa over installation of digital taxi meters?
Savio Messias: The TTAG was peeved with the government as it kept postponing its decision to introduce meters. While this happened we were getting numerous complaints from all over the country and the world about the fleecing of tourists, which was getting a very bad name for Goa which is becoming a very popular tourist destination. We felt enough is enough and it was time to end this harassment of tourists.
HERALD: Why you feel digital meters are necessary?
Messias: We felt that meters are necessary as it is one of the methods which can help bring some sense and discipline in the taxi trade, and why not when meters are being used all over the world? Besides, it would give a lot of confidence to a tourist in an unknown country. Would you not feel the same if you travelled abroad?
HERALD: Do you think that tourists are being looted by the tourist taxi operators who charging them inflated tariffs?
Messias: All taxis drivers are not cheaters, but unfortunately in recent years the number of cases of charging at inflated rates has been growing. Go to any travel portal or booking site and you will see numerous complaints listed there
HERALD: Will digital meters help curb the menace?
Messias: Meters will instill confidence in the tourists, but just meters alone will not curb the menace, but it will reduce the cheating considerably. The government needs to introduce other preventive measures like GPS, tracking of taxis etc and of course sensitising and training of drivers is necessary.
HERALD: What is your take on the recent development in the high court?
Messias: Initially the government was dragging it’s feet as we kept seeing requests for adjournments and time. The matter was heard by three different benches which was very disappointing but one could understand the reasons as a couple of MLAs were vociferous in their support to the taxi community. But now the government seems serious of implementing the decision taken two years ago and we are very confident that the CM (Manohar Parrikar) has understood the situation very well and will ensure that the implementation of meters will be a smooth process and a decent rate will be fixed enabling even the common man to use taxis which is presently beyond their means.
