Calangute, May 27(TOI): Various issues of taxes and subsidies affecting tourist taxi owners were discussed at the largely-attended annual general body meeting of the North Goa Tourist Taxi Owners Association (NGTTOA) at Calangute on Tuesday morning. The issue of vandalism against an office-bearer of the NGTTOA earlier this month in which his taxi was damaged at Candolim was also discussed at the meeting. Members sought to know what action had been taken by the police. Following the meeting a large number of taxi owners went to the Calangute police station.

"The PI was not available and we were told there had been no progress in the investigation. On his arrival, PI Nilesh Rane assured us that he will take action. If there is no action, we will be forced to stage a dharna or go on a strike," NGTTOA vice-president Ravindra Vengurlekar said.

During the meeting , NGTTOA leaders told members about the various taxation issues and subsidies available. "The border tax issue is being discussed by the transport secretaries of Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka. We have suggested a monthly fee instead of an annual one," Vengurlekar said. At the moment Karnataka charges 18,000 as border tax for small taxis.

Members were informed about the change in state government subsidies for taxi owners. All taxi owners who have been operating for nine years are eligible for a subsidy of 25% of the cost of the car, to a maximum of 4 lakh. The earlier limit was 2.5 lakh.