Goa Rent-a-Cab Operators Demand Urgent Meeting with Chief Minister Over Permit Rule
In a critical development, Rent-a-Cab operators from North Goa have called for an immediate meeting with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to contest the 12-year permit expiry regulation that threatens their livelihoods. This move comes as the state's transport directorate has ceased renewing expiring permits and halted the issuance of fresh ones, creating significant uncertainty for the industry.
Permit Crisis and Business Uncertainty
Currently, Goa has only 10 Rent-a-Cab licence holders, all operating under permits issued in their own names in compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act and the Rent-a-Cab Scheme of 1989. This scheme mandates that each applicant maintain a fleet of at least 50 motor cabs. However, with permits capped at a maximum of 12 years and no renewal process available, operators fear they will be forced to shut down once their licences expire.
"Many of us applied for permits in 2018 and wish to continue in this business line. Yet, the decision to stop issuing permits could result in hundreds of families losing their livelihoods within a few years," stated Nitesh Chodankar, president of the North Goa Rent-a-Cab Association, in an interview with TOI. The operators' recent attempt to discuss the issue with the transport director on Thursday was unsuccessful, adding to their frustrations.
Financial Impact and Safety Concerns
The financial stakes are high for these operators. On a daily basis, they earn up to Rs 800 for renting out manual vehicles and up to Rs 1,200 for automatic vehicles, with rates varying based on model and demand. Luxury vehicles command even higher prices, fetching between Rs 3,000 and Rs 4,000 per day. The potential loss of permits could devastate this revenue stream.
Transport Director Pravimal Abhishek declined to comment on the matter, but the decision to halt new permits stems from a State Transport Authority (STA) meeting held on February 24, 2024. This move was aimed at enhancing road safety, as Rent-a-Cabs were involved in nine accidents in 2024 and another nine in 2025. Following the meeting, a public notice was issued, directing applicants not to submit new permit applications and warning that "such applications will not be processed" at this stage.
Industry Calls for Government Intervention
The operators argue that the 12-year cap, combined with the lack of a renewal mechanism, unfairly jeopardizes their businesses. They emphasize that their permits were legally obtained and that they have adhered to all regulatory requirements. The association is now pushing for government intervention to address the permit crisis, highlighting the broader economic implications for families dependent on the Rent-a-Cab sector.
As the situation unfolds, the outcome of their requested meeting with Chief Minister Sawant could determine the future of Rent-a-Cab services in Goa, balancing safety concerns with the need to sustain local employment and business operations.
