‘We want these tourist taxis to earn a good amount’

HERALD:  Why is the need felt for a local tourist taxi app in Goa?

Nilesh Cabral: We want these tourist taxis to earn a good amount. Our proposal will help them earn good business. The concept ensures its implementation will not have any financial burden on them, because we won’t be charging a single paisa. Another reason to set up this system is because of a large section of tourist taxi operators, who have given a bad name to Goa. We don’t say all are bad, but around 90 per cent have the wrong attitude. This has resulted into complaints from tourists and they are the ones, who are creating the hype that the local tourist taxi app will affect the local business. Why are the good things done by the GTDC not hyped? There are certain sections who intend to create panic for no reason. We are only streamlining the manner in which the business is operated in the State. I appeal to the Chief Minister to approve the concept. 

Herald: How will this system work?

Cabral: GTDC will ensure there is Goa’s brand to it. Our proposal is to outsource the structure, software, hardware and other logistics required to function this system. We have spoken to a lot of aggregators; based on which there will be an advertisement issued inviting tenders.  GTDC will place its terms and conditions after an approval from the CM. I want to clarify that GTDC will have full control over the app service, not any outside agency. We will also have an advertising model wherein ads can be displayed on the taxis. It will bring us revenue. We will take the stakeholders on board, and all the concerned will be imparted training on the use of the service. Most importantly, the rates will be pre-approved by government. I know there would be initial hiccups but it is the same for any new venture. Subsequently, it will be a smooth implementation.