Goa, Dec. 11 -- Rent-a-car operators assembled at Junta House in Panjim on Wednesday to submit strong objections to the Transport Department's latest policy restricting the issuance of new rent-a-cab permits under the franchise model. The protest comes amid growing discontent within the tourism-linked transport sector.

Officials have clarified that under the revised rules, franchise permits will not be renewed once a vehicle completes 12 years. Additionally, if an operator replaces a vehicle before the 12-year period ends, the new vehicle will only be permitted to run for the remaining duration within that original 12-year cap.

Operators have condemned the move as unfair and impractical, arguing that it threatens their livelihood and cr...