Even though Goa’s tourism sector is a thriving industry altogether, it needs to have constant supervision and improvements to ensure that the industry does not face any downfalls, as even minor errors in certain aspects can lead to great mishaps that might impact the future of this sector. It had been recorded in the year 2023 that the tourism industry faced a concerning decline of nearly 25%. This is estimated keeping in mind the pre-pandemic levels of tourism, since in the year 2023 the situation was back to its original state.
The reasons given for such a decline, have been stated as improper transport facilities within the states as well as alarming rates of taxi fares. Transportation facilities are one of the most vital components with the perspective of Goa’s tourism. Tourists that traverse through this region are generally from metropolitan cities and are well acquainted with ordering cabs and rented vehicles from the convenience of their phone. The unavailability of such facilities in a state such as Goa hinders the travel experiences of many, hence urgent action is in progress.
The Long-Standing Delimma of Taxi Operators in Goa
Taxi operators within the state have existed for a prolonged period, ever since Goa entered the world of tourism, along with it came the advent of the taxi drivers of Goa, hence one shall find them deeply rooted within the economy of the state. This was one of the major means that earned Goan natives their livelihood, hence they pledged to hold on to it for as long as they could. These taxi operators have influences not just on the economic landscape of Goa, but also on the political leaderships, through which they have been strengthening their support and control over the transport of the state.
These conflicts regarding the taxi operators referred to as the yellow-black unions have been ongoing for an unhealthy duration, with the unions demanding the complete removal of ride-sharing apps that provide the same services at the Mopa Airport, they also have been insisting on the reduction in the parking and pickup charges, plus engaging in illegal activities such as threatening the drivers employed by the app-based cabs or taxi services and preventing them from entering certain areas altogether.
It would seem that these taxi operators are terrified regarding the fact that they are being stripped of the most vital source that earns them their livelihood. They assume that the modern competitors shall attract greater demand and their business will eventually die down. However, the government seems to have taken a stand and will not give in to the demands of the yellow-black union, instead, the taxi operators should aim at joining services with the various app-based cabs, which shall be greatly beneficial for all parties involved.
The Significance of Dependable Transport Facilities for Tourism
For businesses such as resorts, hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies, who entirely depend on tourism, steadfast and reliable transportation facilities are a non-negotiable necessity. Budgeting for a holiday destination includes comparing prices in all forums, including the essential transportation cost within the particular destination. When comparing taxi fares from Goa, tourists are highly disappointed to note that certain other destinations provide much more reasonable rates for internal transport when compared to Goa.
Hence, introducing a much smoother flow of app-based taxis will provide tourists with cost transparency, to avoid the unforeseen price hikes that regular taxi operators control according to their convenience. Resorts and hotels are aided by the consistent business ride-sharing apps are bound to provide, since through this tourists are enabled a stress-free vacation, without the hassle of worrying about taxi fares.
How Ride-Sharing Apps Shall Positively Shape Tourism
The large-scale development that app-based services can deliver within the tourism landscape of Goa is immeasurable.
- Firstly, the convenience and ease of ordering a taxi or cab right from the convenience of one’s phone, in a matter of minutes
- Overcoming the issues of overcharging since apps will provide transparency in pricing
- Prompt and timely services that shall be carried out hassle-free
- Trustworthy medium, since customers are given the option of complaining or leaving negative feedback, hence the behaviors of drivers shall remain in check as they face the threat of being fired.
Along with the well-recognized Goa miles, there are quite a few applications that are awaiting their advent into the Goan tourism market. The government of Goa has launched a new app service known as the Goa Taxi App, allowing individuals to book taxis day and night.
The Long Awaited Advancement: Contributing towards Digital India
The majority of Indian states have adapted to the app-based platforms of cabs, with Goa being one of the only states unwilling to move away from its traditional methods of taxi operators. Additionally, by preventing the advent of ride-sharing apps, Goa shall be incapable of contributing to the Government of India’s Digital India campaign. Hence this issue is much larger than one might imagine it to be, Goa must take measures to align itself with the rest of the country and fear lagging behind.
A Viable Path towards Resourceful Future
The taxi operators union must realize that the onset of app-based services is not the end of their modes for earning. They must be made aware of the benefits that they as well as the Goa can attain by joining forces with such platforms. Reports have proven, through a survey in Jaipur, that natives who cooperated with the ride-sharing apps, witnessed a tremendous increase of up to 40% in their monthly earnings.
The reason is, that these apps provide their drivers with a wider customer access facility that these drivers cannot avail of regularly since they have to be constantly stationed in one spot to attract customers. However, aligning themselves with such platforms will give the drives convenient access.
Resorts and hotels that have partnered with various online platforms over the years have also expressed positive results through the same. Additionally, if such taxi operators were to join the newly launched app by the Goa government, known as Goa Taxi App, they shall moreover be given larger access to various government schemes.
Hence, this advancement shall not have adverse effects on any individual, every group involved shall benefit from this advent in one way or another, hence the government has also initiated towards taking appropriate steps to control the crisis of the yellow-black unions and facilitate a smooth flow of ride-sharing apps.
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