Goa govt to launch app-based taxi service 'Goamiles' next month
What's the story
The Goa government will launch its own app-based taxi service "Goamiles" to some key tourist destinations starting next month. Nearly 2,800 licensed taxi-drivers are likely to join the app-service of the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), Tourism Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar said. Tourist taxi operators, currently running their businesses individually, had opposed Ola's attempt to start such service earlier, saying it will affect their business.
Information
App in final stages of testing
"The app is in the final stages of testing in actual conditions. Around 2,800 licensed taxi drivers in Goa have already expressed their desire to use the app. The project is expected to bring relief to tourists looking for convenient modes of transportation," Ajgaonkar said.
Revolutionary change
Launch of app-based taxi will bring revolutionary-change in transportation: Ajgaonkar
The launch of the app-based taxi service in Goa will bring a revolutionary change in the transportation system for all stakeholders, including taxi drivers, tourists, and locals, the minister said. "I am confident that taxi drivers from across Goa will join the digital system so that we do not lag behind other states, where such systems are working successfully," Ajgaonkar said.
Awareness campaign
GTDC to launch a campaign to create awareness about app
GTDC Chairman Nilesh Cabral said the corporation will launch a public campaign to create awareness about the app. "We are hopeful of a good response from the general public towards the app for tourism purposes and daily travels," he said. "The app-based taxi service aims to boost digital economy, enable ease of travel for tourists, and give taxi drivers a better income," he said.