Michael Lobo Backs Taxi Operators, Slams Govt Over Tourism Decline
Calangute :- Amidst the ongoing debate over Goa’s tourism slump, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo has come out strongly in support of local taxi operators, rejecting the narrative that blames them for the decline. He also echoed Panaji MLA Babush Monserrate’s recent statement opposing the entry of rent-a-car services, calling for greater transparency and accountability in the tourism sector.
“Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho should retract his statement blaming taxi operators for the tourism decline. The real issue lies in the lack of cleanliness along the coastal belt. Garbage continues to pile up on our beaches, and the panchayats must be held accountable,” Lobo said.
He further alleged that most panchayat secretaries in coastal areas merely maintain challan books and impose fines without taking meaningful steps to address the garbage menace. “We cannot allow this blame game to continue. Tourism is declining not because of taxi issues, but because basic amenities and cleanliness are being ignored,” he added.
Reiterating his support for local taxi operators, Lobo said, “Installing meters alone is not a solution. Bringing in outside cab aggregators is not acceptable. We need to look at the data, understand the root causes, and not scapegoat taxi owners. There must be transparency in decision-making.”
Calling himself a tourism stakeholder, Lobo claimed he understands the ground realities better than those making decisions at the top. “Mauvin Godinho does not understand the problems stakeholders face daily. Only the Chief Minister can resolve this crisis by framing clear and fair guidelines for cab aggregators and ensuring that the interests of local operators are protected,” he asserted.
He urged the government to stop shifting blame and focus on concrete action to boost Goa’s tourism sector, starting with cleaning up the beaches and holding erring panchayats accountable.
