MAPUSA
As the coastal belt of Anjuna-Vagator braces for a four-day Independence Day party season featuring international DJs, techno beats and dazzling laser shows, a small but determined group of local residents is quietly preparing for their own counter-programme --ensuring that noise rules are not broken.
The strategy is simple but effective: stay alert, stay connected and respond the moment loud music crosses the legal decibel limit or continues beyond the permissible hours.
Their primary tool? The emergency helpline 112, backed by prompt alerts to local police, the Goa State Pollution Control Board and other enforcement agencies.
“We will not be on the dance floors; we will be on our phones. The moment we hear violations, we will call 112. This is our way of protesting,” said Desmond Alvares, a long-time campaigner against loud music and petitioner in a recent High Court contempt case.
The network of complainants is informal but well-coordinated.
Dr Inacio Fernandes, another core member of the group, said all affected citizens have been alerted.
“We have our channels of communication ready. Everyone is on standby. We will record videos if needed, so that there is evidence for legal proceedings,” he explained.
These residents are emboldened by a recent High Court directive in the contempt petition, which has sought a follow-up report in three months – a sign, they hope, that the judiciary is still keeping an eye on the matter.
For some, like veteran campaigner Agnes Monteiro, the fight has been long and frustrating.
“Authorities have been reluctant to take tough action. We may not come out in large numbers this time, but we will keep watch and file our complaints,” she said.
Others are more disillusioned, pointing to instances of intimidation.
One resident, requesting anonymity, said some club owners have been spotted loitering near the homes of those who speak up.
“We are scared to move out at night, but we will still call 112. We know what this loud music does to our sleep and peace,” she said.
More than a dozen clubs along the belt are set to host marquee acts, with thousands of tourists expected to pour in.
For the locals, it’s less of a feast and more of a siege.
They know they cannot silence the music entirely. They may not even be able to slow it down. But for them, it’s about more than winning – it’s about keeping the flame alive.
“Come what may, we will not stop complaining. Even if it’s just to remind them that someone is watching,” Fernandes said.
And so, as the bass drops and the crowds cheer, somewhere in the dark a phone will light up – not to capture a selfie, but to make a call.
