Goa has officially ruled out the entry of app-based cab services such as Ola and Uber, choosing instead to uphold a community-driven transport ecosystem in response to mounting pressure from coastal legislators and local taxi operators. The move comes even as the state government invited public feedback on the draft Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.
The announcement followed a high-level meeting between state officials, coastal constituency representatives, and taxi unions. Concerns raised during the meeting focused on protecting the livelihoods of thousands of local drivers and maintaining fare equity across the tourism-heavy state. Officials confirmed that while guidelines were being floated for public scrutiny, there were no immediate plans to allow app-based aggregators to begin operations in the state.
Officials clarified that the draft guidelines are part of a wider consultation and do not indicate a green light for aggregator services. They emphasised that no decision has been made regarding Ola or Uber’s entry into Goa. Authorities assured that all stakeholders, including drivers, tourists, and environmental groups, will be consulted. The aim is to establish a balanced system that ensures fair mobility, protects livelihoods, and supports sustainable urban development.
The response from coastal MLAs and taxi associations was firm. They demanded that the guidelines be put on hold until a fair, uniform fare system was implemented. Taxi operators stressed that allowing national or multinational cab aggregators would destroy local livelihoods, introduce price wars, and remove control from community operators. A key concern raised was the potential for fare undercutting.
Aggregator apps often use dynamic pricing, initially offering cheaper fares that can eventually push out local drivers. To counter this, legislators advocate for flat, state-wide taxi fares and a ban on fare bargaining to ensure fair wages and tourist transparency. Experts also warn that without green fuel mandates, these services may increase traffic and emissions, undermining Goa’s environmental goals and its commitment to net-zero mobility systems.
Goa’s government appears committed to a hyper-local approach—one that preserves community jobs and cultural identity. The state’s decision is likely to remain under review until the feedback on the draft guidelines is fully considered. However, for now, Goa is signalling a bold departure from the app-dominated cab economy—one that puts local livelihoods, tourist trust, and sustainable urban development first.
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