Goa CM Pramod Sawant Says No Ola or Uber for the State

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday confirmed that cab aggregators like Ola and Uber will not be allowed to operate in the state. As per a news report, this comes amid growing pressure from MLAs representing the coastal belt and local taxi operators, who raised concerns over the recently released draft Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines, 2025. 

The draft, published last month, outlines licensing and tariff rules for app-based transport services.

Draft Guidelines Face Opposition

The Transport Department had invited public objections and suggestions on the draft guidelines. Hundreds of taxi operators submitted written objections outside the department office in Panaji earlier this week. They said the guidelines would allow private aggregators to enter the state and impact the livelihoods of local drivers.

Meeting with Coastal MLAs and Taxi Operators

The Chief Minister held a meeting with several MLAs and taxi representatives to address these concerns. Arolkar stated that the meeting aimed to clarify that aggregators like Ola and Uber would not be permitted. He added that there was a consensus to implement uniform taxi fares across Goa to avoid disputes between drivers and passengers.

Fears of Business Loss

According to news reports, taxi operators worry that if private app-based aggregators are allowed, it could lead to the collapse of their businesses. The Chief Minister reiterated that the current guidelines are not an approval for Ola or Uber and assured that all decisions will involve consultations with local stakeholders, including hoteliers and elected representatives.

Conclusion

While the guidelines remain open for public feedback, the state government has confirmed that cab aggregators like Ola and Uber will not be entering Goa for now. Discussions are ongoing to develop a fair system and address local taxi operators' concerns.

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