Taxi drivers have to possess licences and permits to function within the legal framework and those visiting Goa on tourist visas cannot operate legally, centre for responsible tourism (CRT) stated.

While noting with apprehension comments of Russian ambassador to India, Alexander Kadakin, defending the right of Russians to operate tourist taxis because the tourists are charged 10 times more than the actual fare, CRT stated a Russian arriving here on a tourist visa will be unable to fulfill the transport department's requirements as per a TOI report.

Fr Savio Fernandes, who issued a press note on behalf of CRT, stated that the Goa government has notified the rates for the operation of tourist taxis, which can be accessed from the concerned taxis and the government.