Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Transport Department has initiated action against around 400 app-based cabs and auto-rickshaws allegedly identified in connection with violence and damage to public property during recent disturbances in Bhubaneswar, a senior official said on Wednesday.
Additional Transport Commissioner Samarendra Patnaik said the department has begun the process of cancelling the permits of vehicles found to have been involved in the incidents.
The department is also examining the possibility of cancelling the registration certificates (RCs) of the vehicles concerned. Officials are considering measures to prevent such vehicles from operating anywhere in Odisha in the future, Patnaik said.
Action is also being contemplated against the driving licences of drivers allegedly involved in the disturbances. Patnaik said the department would proceed with cancellation of the licences if the required approval is granted.
The transport department’s action comes amid a wider crackdown on those allegedly involved in creating disorder, attacking police personnel and vandalising public property in the state capital.
Meanwhile, the Comprehensive Region Urban Transport (CRUT) said more than 15 Ama Buses were reportedly vandalised during the violence. Several buses suffered damage to their glass panels, including windshields, along with other parts.
CRUT estimated the cost of repairing the damaged buses at around Rs 10 lakh and condemned the vandalism of public transport vehicles.
The agency said damage to public transport infrastructure causes financial loss to public property and also disrupts the mobility and convenience of commuters.
CRUT has urged the Odisha Police to take necessary action against those responsible for the vandalism.
It also appealed to members of the public who may have photographs, videos or other visual evidence of the incidents to share the material publicly and, where possible, submit it to the police and other concerned authorities.
