new delhi, May 29 -- Ride-hailing platforms are preparing to enter Goa, a market they have long coveted but struggled to gain access due to resistance from local taxi unions. Now, the state's newly released Transport Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, could finally change that. The draft guidelines, published last week by the Goa government, lay out a formal regulatory framework for app-based taxi and bike taxi operators. It includes licensing conditions, fare regulations, driver payment timelines and crucially, mandates that the entire fare be paid directly to drivers, effectively banning platform commissions. The move marks a shift from informal control to structured regulation in one of India's most tourism-dependent states. As per media reports, Goa received 10 million visitors in 2024. The Economic Survey for 2024-2025, projected Goa's population for 2025 at approximately 1.59 million. Tourism volume dwarfs the local population, resulting in incredibly high tourist-to-local ratio. "We believe tourists as much as locals in Goa deserve more mobility choices, and there is already a strong existing demand for reliable ride options in the state," an Uber spokesperson told Mint. "This regulatory update makes it possible for platforms like Uber to serve demand more effectively and responsibly," the company said. It added it'll submit formal feedback and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure the framework supports drivers, riders and the economy. The draft guidelines are open for public feedback till June 19. Rapido also appears bullish. "I think the government recognizing the importance of developing a much more convenient and safer transportation infrastructure is crucial - it's a key element of tourism," said Pavan Guntupalli, Rapido co-founder. Ola Electric declined to comment on the development. Analysts say Rapido's enthusiasm stems from its no-commission and SaaS (software as a service) model, which analysts believe will give it a competitive advantage in the Goa market. "Rapido's model is tailor-made for these guidelines, but Ola and Uber may have to adapt," said Nikhil Dhaka, policy lead at Primus Partners, a consultancy firm. Platforms will have to contend with Goa's pronounced seasonality. There are peaks where demand is exponentially high, and times when it's a complete dry season, said Kaushik. "They have to be very careful - not just about how to operate, but when to operate," he added. Rapido says its flexibility gives it an edge. "Whenever there's a lull, we enable our autos and bikes to participate in the delivery economy - not just as taxis, but also for couriers and deliveries," said Guntupalli. It claims to be well-positioned to meet demands of Goa's evolving mobility market. "One of the reasons Rapido shifted to a SaaS player is to enable the offline industry to come online," Guntupalli said....