Bhubaneswar: Following violence and damage to public property allegedly involving app-based cab and auto-rickshaw operators in Bhubaneswar, the Odisha Transport Department has initiated stringent action against vehicles identified as being involved in the disturbances.

Additional Transport Commissioner Samarendra Patnaik said the department has started the process of cancelling the permits of all vehicles identified in connection with the violence. Around 400 vehicles have so far been identified, and action has been initiated against them, he added.

The department is also considering cancellation of the registration certificates (RCs) of the vehicles involved in the incidents. Steps will also be taken to ensure these vehicles are not allowed to operate anywhere in Odisha in the future.

In addition, the Transport Department is considering cancellation of the driving licences of the drivers allegedly involved in the disturbances.

Patnaik said the department would proceed with cancellation of the drivers’ licences, if the necessary approval is granted.

The action comes amid a crackdown on those allegedly involved in creating disorder, attacking police personnel and vandalising public property in Bhubaneswar.

Over 15 Ama Buses vandalised

Meanwhile, the Comprehensive Region Urban Transport (CRUT) said more than 15 Ama Buses were reportedly vandalised during the violence, with their glass panels, including windshields, and other parts damaged.

According to CRUT, the estimated cost of repairing the affected buses is around ₹10 lakh.
Condemning the vandalism of public transport vehicles, CRUT said such damage not only causes financial loss to public property but also directly affects the mobility and convenience of commuters.

CRUT 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 captured photographs, videos or other visual evidence of the incidents to share the material publicly and, wherever possible, provide it to the police and concerned authorities.