Calangute: Members of the All Goa Rent-a-Cab Association on Tuesday said that five to six road accidents have been reported in the last four days, of which only one involved a registered rent-a-cab vehicle, while the remaining cases involved private vehicles.
The association, however, expressed concern that public criticism is being largely directed at the rent-a-cab sector despite the majority of incidents involving privately owned or other vehicles.
Members also flagged what they described as a wider issue linked to the availability of alcohol and late-night entertainment venues.
They said wine stores, bars, dance clubs and other establishments operating late into the night contribute to drink-driving incidents, but attention is often focused only on rental vehicles.
At the same time, association representatives acknowledged the need for stricter compliance within their sector. They said operators have been instructed to record video inspections of vehicles before handing them over to customers and to clearly caution tourists against drinking and driving.
The delegation met Calangute Police Inspector Laxi Amonkar to discuss recent accidents and concerns over fake number plates and illegal rentals.
They emphasised the need for stronger coordination between police and licensed operators to improve road safety and curb unauthorised vehicle operations.
A member said that while tourists generally behave responsibly at the time of renting, problems arise later when alcohol is consumed.
The association called for intensified police patrolling and nakabandi to curb drink-driving, and urged stricter penalties, including court action where applicable.
The association further said that many accidents involve privately owned vehicles being illegally rented out, as well as vehicles with fake or tampered registration plates.
They urged the government to act against such illegal operations rather than targeting licensed rent-a-cab operators.
