Srinagar, 20 June (H.S.): All-India permit cab operators today alleged that authorities had seized nearly 25 vehicles and prevented them from operating in Kashmir without explaining the reasons behind the action.

The operators demanded the immediate release of the impounded vehicles and sought clarification from the authorities regarding the restrictions imposed on their operations.

According to the operators, around 700 vehicles are operating in the Valley under All-India permits and many have been affected by the ongoing action.

Firdous Ahmad, an operator, said the crackdown had caused financial losses to vehicle owners as several pre-booked tours had been cancelled.

We do not know the reasons behind the seizure of these vehicles. If there is a new law or any additional tax that we have to pay in the Union Territory, the authorities should inform us, he said.

Ahmad alleged that representatives of the operators' association met the Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir yesterday to raise the issue but were not given a satisfactory response.

Questioning the action against the vehicles, he said All-India permit cabs are authorised to operate across the country and sought clarity on whether any new restrictions had been imposed in J&K.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar