Thursday 14th August is Pakistan Independence Day and Friday 15th of August is India Independence Day and are commemorated in Southall.

Ealing Borough Police will carry out policing operation on both days to ensure that it was a safe and happy time for all.

There are sometimes a few people who use these events to behave in an anti-social manner, such as driving dangerously or behaving in a disorderly way.

This type of behaviour is unacceptable and a visible police presence deters such behaviour and, if necessary, allow the Police to deal with offenders swiftly.

It is very important that the communities of Southall are able to carry out their day-to-day activities without unacceptable behaviour and unreasonable disruption.

Police always advise people who intend to meet up with family and friends to celebrate the Independence Days in the Southall area to use public transport, to help minimise congestion in the area.

This year, due to major roadworks on the Broadway, some of the (out of town) lunatics decided to park their cars on the side streets and play their car stereos at full blast. This was accompanied by the usual dancing in the middle of the street and stopping every car that drives by.

The Pakistan celebrations, as usual, were far more noisier.

A few Indian lunatics, not wanting to be outdone, decided to scream their heads off in the middle of the night while driving (slowly) through the side streets.

The local residents, especially those living near the Broadway, want better policing of these events. They can remember the days when only residents were allowed into the area and those wishing to enter had to provide proof of residence or restaurant booking information.

A few of the restaurants on Southall Broadway are responsible for encouraging this shoddy behaviour.

We wish everyone Happy Independence Days.