Panaji Halts New Rent a Cab Permits to Curb Road Congestion
In a decisive step to address growing traffic congestion and enhance road safety, Panaji has officially suspended the issuance of new permits under the Rent a Cab Scheme, 1989. The directive, enforced by the state transport authority under Section 67(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, is aimed at curbing the unchecked expansion of commercial cab operations. Officials said the move aligns with a broader policy shift to manage Goa’s fragile road ecosystem, especially in high-density tourist zones where unregulated transport services have increasingly contributed to overcrowding and illegal operations.
The government had initially taken this decision in February 2024 during a meeting of the state transport authority. A formal public notice followed in March, warning applicants that new permit requests would no longer be entertained. The clampdown is particularly significant in light of widespread misuse of private vehicles being operated as commercial taxis, which authorities say bypass legal and safety regulations. Enforcement teams have now been instructed to monitor routes rigorously and penalise violations, with fines starting at ₹10,000 and increasing sharply for repeat offenders. Registration cancellations and vehicle impoundments may also be pursued. Stakeholders in the transport sector are divided on the implications. While some argue the freeze on permits could affect livelihood opportunities and stall small-scale entrepreneurship, others point to the long-term sustainability concerns if unregulated traffic continues. Experts believe that Goa’s narrow roadways, especially in tourist-heavy zones, are not equipped to handle unbridled vehicular expansion.
By pausing fresh permits, the state is also buying time to restructure its public mobility framework. Urban planners have consistently recommended that Goa invest more in clean, shared, and regulated transport systems instead of over-relying on private commercial cabs. Residents have voiced support for greater regulation, especially those living in neighbourhoods affected by increasing noise, air pollution, and road safety risks. The rise of app-based booking platforms has also blurred the lines between authorised and unauthorised operators, making enforcement more complex. Officials maintain that this temporary halt is part of a broader urban transport strategy, and any future issuance of permits will be conditional upon policy reforms that prioritise sustainability, accessibility, and traffic discipline. Until then, legal clarity and consistent enforcement remain key to ensuring public safety on Goa’s roads.
As Goa continues to navigate the pressures of tourism-driven mobility and urban growth, decisions like halting new cab permits mark a pivot towards thoughtful planning. While regulation may create short-term operational challenges, it paves the way for long-term improvements in traffic safety, air quality, and sustainable city infrastructure. Authorities must now ensure that enforcement is consistent and transparent, while exploring alternate livelihood avenues for those impacted by the freeze.
