Goa's Taxi Operators Protest for Rights at Mopa International Airport

Taxi operators at Goa's new Mopa International Airport are protesting against illegal transport operations and high parking charges, demanding a counter at the airport and adoption of app-based services. A meeting with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant failed to materialize, with Sawant calling the protest politically motivated.

A proposed meeting between protesting tourist taxi operators at Goa's new Mopa International Airport and Chief Minister Pramod Sawant fell through on Friday, with Sawant deeming their protest politically motivated.

Taxi operators have been protesting since Thursday, demanding a halt to illegal transport operations and reduced parking charges, among other issues.

The taxi operators hoped to resolve their grievances during a meeting with CM Sawant, but only 8-10 representatives were allowed, leading to the meeting's cancellation.

Protest leader Chetan Kamat stated that the delegation would return to Pernem for further decisions.

Despite Sawant's assertion that the government has addressed their concerns, taxi operators continue to demand immediate action.

The Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) has urged taxi operators to adopt app-based services to improve the tourism sector.

Protesters also demand a free counter at the airport for locals who sacrificed their land for the facility.

(With inputs from agencies.)