Bhubaneswar, Aug. 20 (UDN): A protest by drivers associated with Ola, Uber and Rapido escalated into violence near Master Canteen and Lower PMG Square in Bhubaneswar, leaving at least 13 police personnel injured and prompting a major police crackdown that has so far resulted in 113 arrests and the seizure of 354 vehicles.
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The unrest followed a road blockade by app-based cab, auto-rickshaw and bike taxi drivers, which disrupted traffic near the railway station and brought movement on one of the city’s busiest stretches to a standstill.
Police Crackdown Intensifies
According to police, the arrests were made in multiple phases after the clash, while 60 people who had initially been detained were later released following preliminary verification of their involvement.
Authorities have also seized 354 vehicles allegedly used in the blockade. The Odisha Transport Department has begun proceedings against the vehicle owners, with permits facing possible cancellation. Officials said further action against registration certificates and driving licences of those found involved is also under consideration.
Traffic Paralysed for Nearly an Hour
The blockade affected the stretch between Raj Mahal Square and Ram Mandir Square for nearly an hour, leaving commuters stranded and causing significant traffic congestion.
More than 25 people, including the injured police personnel, were reportedly hurt during the confrontation. Police later cleared the blocked roads after dispersing the protesters and removing vehicles parked across the carriageway.
Police Cite Planned Violence
Deputy Commissioner of Police Jagmohan Meena said blocking public roads was unlawful and alleged that some protesters had come prepared with stones before the demonstration turned violent. He said police were identifying and seizing vehicles used during the blockade based on evidence collected from the scene.
Transport Department Initiates Action
Additional Transport Commissioner Sangram Pattnaik said authorities are examining permit violations and vehicle documents linked to those involved in the protest. Appropriate action will be taken against both vehicle owners and drivers wherever violations are established, he added.
Seven Cases Registered
Kharavel Nagar Police have registered seven FIRs in connection with the incident. The cases include complaints filed by police personnel, bus employees and local residents affected during the violence.
Protest Over Driver Welfare
The agitation began on Monday, with drivers demanding revisions in fares and improved welfare benefits. The situation escalated on Wednesday when hundreds of protesters blocked roads near Bhubaneswar Railway Station around 11 a.m.
During the violence, around 15 buses, several private vehicles and police vans were damaged. Police later resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse the crowd and restore normalcy.
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