Misinformed Colaba fishermen wait for Obama

Fishermen at Badhwar Park in Cuffe Parade had a long wait on Sunday morning after some policemen told them that there was a possibility of US President Barack Obama visiting their seaside hamlet.

Fishermen at Badhwar Park in Cuffe Parade had a long wait on Sunday morning after some policemen told them that there was a possibility of US President Barack Obama visiting their seaside hamlet.

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However, the eager wait turned into disappointment when they learnt of Obama’s departure for New Delhi in the afternoon.

According to the villagers, they were informed that President Obama’s schedule was packed and he would probably make a quick visit to their colony to see the landing point of the 26/11 terrorists.

“We were told that Obama wanted to visit the spot from where terrorists, Ajmal Kasab and his accomplices, got off their boat and sneaked into the city. But, probably he was tied up in other functions. The police kept us in the dark and we waited for the President till afternoon,” said Damodar Tandel, president of Akhil Maharashtra Macchimar Kriti Samiti.

“We thought the visit would be a quick one, but he did not at all turn up due to time constraint,” said a fisherman, who was sure of Obama’s visiting their village.

“We wanted him to take a peek at the lives of fishermen in Mumbai. But, we are glad that they saw our traditional dance at the Holy Name High School in Colaba,” added Tandel.