Godinho Rebuts Lobo’s Criticism on Taxi Meters, Cites HC Directive.

Panaji: Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho on Friday dismissed criticism from Calangute MLA Michael Lobo over the installation of digital taxi meters in Goa, emphasising that the measure was mandated by the High Court and decided before he took charge of the department.“Some people have a habit of just talking and moving from here to there and there to here,” Godinho told reporters in Panaji, pointedly alluding to Lobo without naming him. “You all know that, so why should we keep talking? I don’t want to kick up another issue. I want to resolve issues and not create more confusion.”Lobo had recently demanded a review of the digital meter policy, claiming it was causing severe financial strain for thousands of taxi operators who rely on tourism.Godinho, however, clarified that the rollout of meters was neither arbitrary nor sudden. “The meters were fixed as per the High Court order, and the decision was taken before I took over as Transport Minister,” he said, reiterating that his focus remains on implementation and addressing genuine concerns.The debate over taxi meters in Goa has dragged on for years. In 2018, the Bombay High Court at Goa directed the state government to ensure that all taxis are fitted with digital fare meters integrated with GPS tracking systems. The move aimed to prevent arbitrary fare negotiations and overcharging, a long-standing complaint from tourists.