The Goa government has released draft guidelines to regulate app-based taxi aggregators in the state, a move that has stirred opposition among local taxi unions. Notified on May 20, the guidelines aim to streamline taxi operations while protecting the interests of drivers and passengers. However, many taxi operators fear the new rules could threaten their livelihoods and invite outside competition.
The government has invited stakeholders to submit feedback on the draft by June 30. According to Sunil Naik, president of the North and South Goa Taxi Owners Association, the guidelines are too loosely defined, potentially allowing taxi operators from across India to enter Goa’s market and undercut local drivers.
“These guidelines are unacceptable and pose a threat to our livelihoods,” Naik said. “We are self-made entrepreneurs who built our own businesses, and we don’t want to lose that independence by working under companies or aggregators.”
The draft guidelines, however, stress that they seek to protect taxi drivers and owners. They include provisions ensuring drivers receive a minimum fare set by the government for every trip. Aggregators must also pay drivers within 72 hours of trip completion, failing which they face a 25% penalty on delayed payments.
Only drivers with valid private service vehicle badges and vehicles registered with permits issued by the Goa State Transport Authority or Regional Transport Authority will be allowed to join aggregators. Additionally, aggregators must sign enforceable contracts with drivers, which do not restrict drivers from working with multiple platforms.
Health insurance coverage of at least ₹10 lakh per driver is mandated, with a 5% annual increment starting from the 2025-26 financial year. For female drivers, insurance must extend to their parents and children. The guidelines also offer incentives such as vehicle insurance reimbursement (up to ₹30,000) for female drivers who complete over 500 trips annually.
The state transport department justified the new regulations as a response to recurring complaints from tourists regarding poor service, inflated fares, and non-compliance with regulated meters.
The Travel and Tourism Association of Goa welcomed the guidelines, stating they balance the interests of tourists, locals, drivers, and operators alike.
Cab aggregator Rapido also praised the move, calling it a “progressive step toward building a transparent, safe, and inclusive mobility ecosystem.” Pavan Guntupalli, Rapido’s co-founder, said the policy will help digitize mobility and empower local micro-entrepreneurs. The company plans to launch operations in Goa once the necessary licences and regulations are finalized.
As feedback continues to pour in, the Goa government hopes to finalize the guidelines that can bring clarity and fairness to the evolving taxi sector while addressing concerns from all parties involved.
Sources By Agencies
