In an attempt to revamp the public transport system in the state, the Goa government has decided to install free-of-cost fare metres in the local taxis. The cabinet passed the formal proposal for this on Thursday, which is expected to benefit locals and tourists through a regulated system for fare collection. Speaking about the initiative, the Chief Minister stated that the scheme is being launched on humanitarian grounds to advantage the drivers and the commuters.

A step towards better ensuring justified rates for the consumers

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After chairing a meeting of the state cabinet, the CM said, "The taxi owners will not have to pay for the installation of meters. The government is giving it to them free of cost. The cabinet has cleared the proposal." On the other hand, taxi drivers have raised objections against GoaMiles, an-app based cab service launched by a private firm.

While there are numerous anticipations about the current scheme amogst the community of drivers, it can be said that the pricing will be improved and streamlined if the plans are properly implemented.

No other app-based service fucntional in Goa

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Notably, the coastal state has only local taxis for inter-regional transport and no app-based service operates in Goa. Given the monopoly, the drivers resort to charging unjustified rates from the commuters. Thus, this new intervention will help in monitoring the fares so that the citizens have to pay valid charges. Once the new metres are installed, the travellers will have to pay prices according to them and this will act as a significant step towards consumer protection.

- With inputs from IANS