A video of a tourist in Goa is going viral these days. The video has stirred up a debate online, wherein he is accusing Goa’s taxi owners of operating like a "transport mafia." The video shows the traveller ranting his frustration because there were few private taxi services. Tourists in Goa have to depend on the taxi unions which often charge exorbitant fares.
The tourist explains that the unions have agreements with local hotels, effectively monopolizing transport options. He reveals a particularly shocking experience where a taxi driver charged him Rs 1,600 for a 10 km trip to a restaurant.
Taking to his social media, he said, "It would cost me Rs 3,500 for a round trip to a place just 10 km away. Unbelievable!” he rants. The comparison to taxi fares in other tourist-friendly countries like Thailand and Indonesia, where rides are much cheaper, further highlights the disparity. The tourist claims that these steep charges discourage visitors from exploring the region, as many travelers prefer to limit their trips due to the high transport costs.
This clip went viral quickly and received more than 250K views, sparking widespread debate. While many viewers were sympathetic to the tourist’s experience, some were skeptical, suggesting alternative transportation options like renting a bike, scooter, or cycle. One user, who had lived in Goa for three years, pointed out that two-wheelers are easily available for rent, and questioned why tourists insist on taxis when other, more affordable options are readily accessible.
Others dismissed the idea of a "taxi mafia" altogether, stating that their own experiences in Goa had been smooth, with no issues regarding transport. These users argued that tourists creating viral content, perhaps exaggerating their claims, might be responsible for amplifying such grievances. However, some critics placed the blame on certain tourists, particularly those from larger cities, for contributing to Goa’s declining tourism reputation by engaging in disruptive behavior.
A few users expressed concern over the rising costs of accommodation, food, and taxis in Goa, which are making the destination less affordable for families and solo travellers alike. One person even argued that the issues stem from a broader economic problem, labeling it "cronyism," where established businesses profit without offering any substantial improvements in service or infrastructure.
The tourist explains that the unions have agreements with local hotels, effectively monopolizing transport options. He reveals a particularly shocking experience where a taxi driver charged him Rs 1,600 for a 10 km trip to a restaurant.
Taking to his social media, he said, "It would cost me Rs 3,500 for a round trip to a place just 10 km away. Unbelievable!” he rants. The comparison to taxi fares in other tourist-friendly countries like Thailand and Indonesia, where rides are much cheaper, further highlights the disparity. The tourist claims that these steep charges discourage visitors from exploring the region, as many travelers prefer to limit their trips due to the high transport costs.
This clip went viral quickly and received more than 250K views, sparking widespread debate. While many viewers were sympathetic to the tourist’s experience, some were skeptical, suggesting alternative transportation options like renting a bike, scooter, or cycle. One user, who had lived in Goa for three years, pointed out that two-wheelers are easily available for rent, and questioned why tourists insist on taxis when other, more affordable options are readily accessible.
This is Why Goa Tourism is Falling Down! Reality Check‼️
— Mohini Of Investing (@MohiniWealth) March 31, 2025
Why Tourists Not Going to Goa? pic.twitter.com/S80rROLvAW
Others dismissed the idea of a "taxi mafia" altogether, stating that their own experiences in Goa had been smooth, with no issues regarding transport. These users argued that tourists creating viral content, perhaps exaggerating their claims, might be responsible for amplifying such grievances. However, some critics placed the blame on certain tourists, particularly those from larger cities, for contributing to Goa’s declining tourism reputation by engaging in disruptive behavior.
A few users expressed concern over the rising costs of accommodation, food, and taxis in Goa, which are making the destination less affordable for families and solo travellers alike. One person even argued that the issues stem from a broader economic problem, labeling it "cronyism," where established businesses profit without offering any substantial improvements in service or infrastructure.
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