The Goa government is set to unveil a new draft taxi policy on September 10, 2025, following consultations with various stakeholders. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced the initiative, emphasizing the policy's focus on transparency, digitalization, and ensuring the safety of tourists. The move aims to address long-pending issues within the taxi sector and provide smoother transport solutions for both locals and tourists.

Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte stated that the proposed policy would mandate digital platforms for taxi operators while excluding aggregators like Ola and Uber. He assured that all stakeholders would be consulted throughout the process.

The announcement has been met with mixed reactions. MLA Michael Lobo welcomed the policy, highlighting the need for rationalization and transparency in the taxi business. Opposition Leader Yuri Alemao indicated that the existing policy would be scrapped and replaced with the new Goa State Taxi Policy on September 10, as assured by the Chief Minister.

The draft policy is expected to prioritize transparency and tourist security, taking into account the concerns of taxi stakeholders. The government aims to create a policy that serves the best interests of the state. Several aspects were discussed in relation to the Goa State Policy. Concerns were raised about promises made in the past and the need to take stakeholders into confidence.

The new policy is expected to address various issues, potentially including the feasibility of allowing services like Ola and Uber in the future. The government's commitment to introducing the draft taxi policy by September 10 signals a significant step towards resolving the ongoing challenges in Goa's transport system.