Locals plan to upload videos of pub menace

In the wake of ACP Vasant Dhoble’s transfer, Bandra residents have decided to fill his shoes by putting technology and social networking to use.

In the wake of ACP Vasant Dhoble’s transfer, Bandra residents have decided to fill his shoes by putting technology and social networking to use.

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Armed with video cameras, they have launched a campaign to urge people battling loud noise and commotion caused by pubs near their residences, to upload videos on the popular video sharing website Youtube.com. By donning the hat of citizen inspectors, residents hope to reach out to a larger audience and higher police officials.

“Citizen activism is the answer to ACP Dhoble’s transfer,” said Aftab Siddiqui, chairperson of 33rd Road Advanced Locality Management, who has also undertaken night vigils in the past to fight illegal establishments in the western suburbs. “When we try to explain our plight to others, they do not understand the gravity of the situation. By uploading videos of what happens every night, up to the wee hours, people will get an idea of the inconvenience encountered on ground,” he added.

“An earnest man like Dhoble was shunted out for doing a good job. Instead of grumbling about the troubles they encounter every day, citizens should now fight back,” said activist Daphne Warapen.