Goa has long relied on its local taxi network, and one of the biggest reasons Goans strongly oppose Ola and Uber is that around 42.5% of families in Goa have at least one taxi, making it a primary source of income for many households. The arrival of app-based services threatens this local livelihood, shifting earnings from Goan taxi drivers to large corporations that take a significant commission from fares.
Just as many Indians prefer avoiding Chinese products to prevent economic benefits from flowing outside the country, Goans feel the same way about ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber. They believe that the money spent on transportation should stay within Goa rather than being funneled to outside companies, negatively impacting the local economy.
Another major concern is the low earnings for drivers under Ola and Uber. In other states where these companies operate, drivers have protested against unfair pricing, reduced commissions, and high company deductions, making it difficult for them to earn a decent living. Meanwhile, passengers have also complained that ride fares are initially low but surge pricing makes them expensive over time. Goan taxi operators fear that these companies will follow the same pattern—attracting customers with low fares at first and later increasing rates while cutting driver earnings.
Goans have protested multiple times against the introduction of Ola and Uber, arguing that app-based services will lead to job losses, lower wages, and loss of control over their own businesses. Instead of depending on corporations, local drivers prefer maintaining an independent system where they set fair prices and earn directly from passengers without middlemen taking a cut.
At its core, the opposition to Ola and Uber in Goa is not just about blocking competition—it’s about protecting local livelihoods, keeping the economy within the state, and ensuring fair earnings for Goan taxi operators.
Ola & Uber May Benefit Visitors, But They Harm Goa’s Tourism Economy
Ola and Uber are useful for daily commuters going to offices, but they are not ideal for tourists visiting Goa. Unlike metro cities, Goa is a tourist destination where visitors come to explore, relax, and enjoy—not just take short, budget-friendly rides. The introduction of these app-based services could severely impact local taxi drivers, whose livelihoods depend on fair tourist fares.
The biggest issue is pricing. If Ola and Uber offer lower fares to attract tourists while taking a high commission from drivers, what will be left for them? Just a few coins—not real earnings. Once these companies dominate the market, local drivers will lose control over their pricing, leading to a struggle for survival.
This is why Goans strongly oppose Ola and Uber—not just to block competition but to protect their economy, jobs, and way of life.
How Ola and Uber Destroyed Local Taxi Drivers’ Livelihoods: Real Cases
The entry of ride-hailing giants like Ola and Uber has severely impacted local taxi drivers across India. Many traditional drivers have suffered from lower earnings, increased competition, and unfair pricing policies. Here are some real examples of how these companies disrupted the livelihoods of thousands:
- Sharp Decline in Demand for Local Taxis
In Mumbai, the rise of Ola and Uber drastically reduced demand for traditional taxis and auto-rickshaws. K.K. Tiwari, leader of the Swabhiman Taxi Rickshaw Union, stated that many local drivers have been struggling to survive due to this unfair competition. (Read more on Scroll.in) - Financial Crisis for Traditional Drivers
A study on Delhi’s transport industry found that Ola and Uber’s entry intensified competition, forcing local taxi drivers to reduce fares and suffer massive income losses. Many drivers who once had stable earnings are now struggling to repay vehicle loans. (Full study on SAGE Journals) - Driver Strikes Over Falling Incomes
Between 2016 and 2018, Ola and Uber drivers went on nearly 15 major strikes across Indian cities, protesting against unfair fare policies and shrinking commissions. Many drivers joined the platforms expecting good pay, but they ended up barely making enough to survive. (Read more on Futures of Work) - Uber’s Desperate Shift to a Subscription Model
To counter growing dissatisfaction among auto-rickshaw drivers, Uber recently adopted a zero-commission model in India. This move highlights how high commission cuts were making it impossible for drivers to earn fairly. (More details on Reuters)
These real-life cases prove that while Ola and Uber may appear convenient for customers, they have devastated local drivers, forcing many into financial distress. If the same model is introduced in Goa, it could severely harm Goan taxi operators, making it difficult for them to sustain their livelihoods.
BJP’s Role in the “Taxi Mafia” Label and Goa’s Taxi System Issues
The BJP took over Goa in 2012, and by 2017, the “taxi mafia” label was all over the internet—pinned on local drivers for overcharging and blocking competition. That frustration exploded under the BJP’s watch, with a 2017 petition demanding Uber and Ola to fix the mess. Instead of supporting local taxi operators, the BJP sent mixed signals: the Transport Minister met with Ola in 2022, while some MLAs pushed back against outside apps. They had the power to regulate fares or boost local drivers but did nothing. The result? The “taxi mafia” label stuck, and the taxi system’s still a mess—thanks to the BJP’s inaction.
Ola Uber Alternatives
In response to the strong resistance against Ola and Uber in Goa, several local alternatives have emerged to meet the transportation needs of residents and tourists. These services—Goa Miles, CabGoa, and PavanCab—offer a more community-oriented approach to ride-hailing, often supported by local authorities or designed to align with Goan values. Unlike the global giants, which have faced opposition from taxi unions and skepticism from the government, these alternatives provide options that prioritize local interests and livelihoods. Here’s a closer look at each:
Goa Miles: The Government-Backed Solution
Launched in 2018 by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation, Goa Miles stands out as the most prominent alternative to Ola and Uber. This app-based taxi service was created to offer a safe, reliable, and affordable transportation option for both locals and visitors. With features like transparent pricing and professional drivers, it has gained significant trust, thanks to its government backing. However, it hasn’t been entirely free of criticism—traditional taxi operators have voiced concerns, seeing it as a threat to their business despite its local roots. Goa Miles demonstrates that Goans are open to modern ride-hailing solutions, provided they remain under local control and benefit the community.
CabGoa: Personalized Service for Locals and Tourists
CabGoa is a bigger and well-regarded option that has built a loyal customer base by focusing on personalized service. It offers a variety of services, including airport transfers and sightseeing tours, and prides itself on its attention to detail. Many users value the reliability and human touch that CabGoa brings to the table—qualities often absent in larger, more impersonal platforms. For locals and tourists who prefer a community-focused experience over a corporate one, CabGoa is a popular pick.
PavanCab: Affordable and Reliable
Rounding out the list is PavanCab, a local service that has been operating in Goa for several years. It provides a range of vehicles, from sedans to SUVs, making it suitable for both quick trips and extended travel. While it may not boast the advanced technology of some competitors, PavanCab compensates with its affordability and dependability. For many Goans, it’s a straightforward, no-frills option that gets the job done without the complexities of global ride-hailing apps.
These alternatives to Ola and Uber are more than just replacements—they reflect a broader preference for local solutions that support Goa’s economy and preserve its community identity. By offering government backing, competitive pricing, and a personal touch, services like Goa Miles, CabGoa, and PavanCab address the concerns that fuel resistance to global ride-hailing giants. For Goans who want to keep transportation in local hands, these options provide a compelling and practical way forward.
