Need to adapt to changing times without upsetting local biz: Lobo

Panaji: Calangute MLA Michael Lobo reiterated his support for local taxi operators, stating their concerns would be given serious consideration during upcoming meetings with the Chief Minister and party leadership.

“From the beginning, I have been with the taxi operators. They are not asking for government jobs. They are working hard and standing on their own feet. We need to support them,” Lobo said.

He said that any decision regarding the sector must protect the interests of local taxi owners.

Hundreds of taxi operators arrived at the Transport Department office at Junta House in Panaji on Monday to submit their objections and suggestions to the draft Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines 2025. Notified on May 20, the guidelines propose a regulatory framework to allow app-based ride-hailing services to operate in the state.

“We will take the right decision, keeping in mind the interests of our local taxi owners. They deserve a win-win situation,” said Lobo.

Acknowledging the need to adapt to changing times, Lobo said that such changes must not jeopardise local businesses.

“The question is how do we manage these changes without creating more problems? Our business must remain in our hands, not be taken over by others,” he said.

Referring to the issue of rent-a-vehicle services, Lobo said, “There is no future in this. Rent-a-bike licences were stopped being issued. Rent-a-car licences are also capped now.”

He also flagged the increase in accidents linked to drunk driving. “There have been many accidents, especially due to drunk driving. We need to find a way to manage this. It is the government’s job to streamline these services,” he said.

He said that unemployed youth from coastal areas like Saligao are involved in the rent-a-car business. “We understand their situation, and we have to find a proper solution that works for everyone,” he said.

Lobo said that all stakeholders, including the government, party leadership, and elected representatives, must work together.

“The party and the government must be on the same page. As MLAs, it is our duty to protect the interests of locals who depend on this business,” he said.

“We have been talking about solutions for the past four years, but we have not been able to take firm action. Now is the time to come together and decide.”