Twitter, the new weapon to get issues addressed

Thane: Social media platforms, earlier used for connecting with friends, acquaintances and also authorities, are now being used to share problems, opinions and worries.
One of those mediums, Twitter, allows individuals to voice grievances about various issues. They can also post pictures.
Many residents say this is an easy medium of communication and also creates more impact as it forces authorities to take action.Officials have to be on their toes, respond to queries and act on complaints.
“Once a person tweets and tags the respective officials, the issue comes to the knowledge of officials as well as individuals. Also, the matter is taken seriously as the person in charge has no option but to resolve it,” said Gauri Malekar, an active Twitter user.
While this platform is open for everyone, only few government officials are completely active on it. Some residents have got good responses from the officials.
Rajesh Bhasin, a resident of Hiranandani Estate, recounted his experience using Twitter. “My friends and I had tweeted a few times about the traffic congestion near Kopri bridge. Few months back, Thane police officers and DCP (traffic) called us to discuss the issue and asked for suggestions on how to curb the snarls, especially during peak hours.”
Bhasin said he and his friends were now focusing on the traffic congestion on Eastern Express highway and tweeting and retweeting to the concerned authorities. “We are hoping the departments would do something about it,” Bhasin added.
Another incident which was abuzz on Twitter few months ago was of a girl who was being sent lewd messages by a man. The girl filed a complaint but no action was reportedly taken. She then took to Twitter and this was brought to textile minister Smriti Irani’s notice who intervened and the accused was arrested in Surat.