Panaji: Goa has recorded a surge in the number of unused vehicles scrapped in the financial year 2025-26. Additional director of transport Rajesh Naik said that 1,220 vehicles have been scrapped in the 2025-26 fiscal year, a steep increase compared to 146 vehicles processed in 2024-25.The rise follows state govt’s notification of a formal vehicle scrapping policy on May 18, 2023, and the subsequent establishment of a dedicated scrapping facility in Madkai on Nov 29, 2024.“Vehicles not in use or abandoned can be given to an authorised agency for scrapping. However, many citizens are still not aware of the policy or its guidelines,” Naik said.The facility in Madkai is operated by a private firm. Its director, Tushar Garg, highlighted the services offered to vehicle owners.“All Goa govt vehicles that have crossed 15 years are routed to us, but private vehicles are also accepted. We provide free towing services and ensure that no part of the vehicle, including the engine, is resold, in compliance with legal norms,” he said.Garg added that vehicle owners are issued a certificate of deposit valid for three years, which entitles them to a 25% discount on road tax when purchasing a new vehicle. He urged citizens to approach RTOs to avail of these benefits and ensure proper disposal of old vehicles.Road safety activist Roland Martins pointed out that unused cars can cause pollution through oil leaks or become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
