The government is withdrawing around 46,000 passports issued under the Z-series and has asked holders of such passports to get these replaced by submitting fresh applications. The Government of India has issued instructions that all Indian passports with serial numbers Z-000001 to Z-045925 are to be recalled and new passports issued in their place," the Indian consulate in Dubai stated in a statement on Saturday.

The consulate said it had also issued certain passports under the Z series between February and September 2007. No reason was given for the withdrawal of the passports.

According to the statement, fresh applications from the holders of such passports were being invited along with fresh photographs.

The consulate has opened a counter to deal with cases involving Z series passports, which are being withdrawn. The counter will be open from 8 am to 11 am every working day.

Applicants can also access online services at the consulate website, www.cgidubai.com, or visit the consulate with a specific appointment, it said.

The release stated there would be no new charges, including for delivery of the new passport, at the applicant's residence by courier.

New passports will be issued within the shortest possible time - five days or earlier.

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