Will convince taxi lobby about app services: Calangute MLA Michael Lobo

CALANGUTE: Calangute MLA Michael Lobo on Sunday said the state government will take all taxi owners associations into confidence while launching more app-based taxi services in Goa.
Responding to media queries about transport minister Mauvin Godinho’s statements that more app-based taxi services will be starting from November, Lobo said that the state government will hold meetings to convince taxi owners to be a part of the system.
Taxi owners have in the past been opposed to app-based taxi services, with the Calangute-based North Goa Tourist Taxi Owners Association even launching agitations to stop Uber and other taxi services. There are also frequent clashes between taxi owners and GoaMiles operators.
“I have spoken to the CM about this and he has told me he will take a meeting with all taxi leaders from north and south together and local taxi drivers and owners will be taken into confidence, because finally we don't want to bring taxis from Maharashtra or Karnataka. Taxis have to be of our locals,” Lobo said.
“Protecting our local Goans is very important and the CM has given his assurance. I will also meet Godinho. Even in his constituency unemployed youth have taken taxis. He will support them.The CM and he will work on a larger angle where they are also a part of it,” he said.