PANAJI
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday announced that the government will implement the Goa Digital Taxi Policy this year while presenting the State Budget.
He said the policy aims to modernise transport through technology-driven, citizen-centric services by bringing taxi operators onto a common digital platform.
The announcement comes as the government has begun consultations with taxi operators. On the eve of the Budget, Sawant met representatives of 35 taxi associations at the Mantralaya, in the presence of ruling and Opposition MLAs.
Following the meeting, the Chief Minister directed the formation of a committee to examine suggestions and concerns raised by stakeholders. The committee will meet taxi representatives within eight days before the State government takes a final decision on the policy.
In the Budget, the government allocated Rs 366 crore to the Transport Department, including Rs 336 crore for revenue expenditure and Rs 30 crore for capital expenditure.
Sawant also announced that bus terminals at Margao, Mapusa and Vasco will be redeveloped this financial year under the public-private partnership (PPP) mode at an estimated cost of Rs 745 crore. The Diva bus stand is expected to start operations in May 2026.
To improve road safety, 100 Artificial Intelligence-based cameras will be installed to strengthen enforcement and promote better road discipline.
The State will also set up Automated Testing Stations for mechanical fitness testing of motor vehicles to ensure transparency, certification and compliance with vehicle safety standards.
The Mhaji Bus scheme will continue under the Transport Department, while Kadamba Transport Corporation will add 137 buses to its fleet this year. A provision of Rs 258 crore has been made to strengthen the corporation and improve public transport services across the State.
The Chief Minister also proposed introducing electric buses and e-rickshaws in industrial estates as part of the government’s push for greener mobility.
