Mumbai, Bangalore tipplers to get 'Angels', free cab drive

Mumbai, Nov 18 (UNI) The city's tipplers along with their brethren in Bangalore will have 'angels' and free cabs to drive them home, thanks to a new initiative launched by brewery giant Diageo and youth channel MTv Network to promote 'responsible' drinking.

Under the programme, lissome guardian angels will visit popular watering holes in Mumbai and Bangalore and spread the gospel of responsible drinking and avoiding driving after having drinks. A number of cabs will also be on duty to take home those who had one too many drinks for free.

''We encourage the celebration of life everyday and everywhere but responsibly. And responsible drinking is an integral part of not just Diageo but everyday living,'' Diageo (India) Managing Director Asif Adil said here last night.

He said the angels would visit pubs like Jazz by the Bay and Red Light, along with other bars and permit rooms around the city and suburbs. No plans are yet on the board to introduce the programme to other cities.

''The angels will also be highlighted along with the free cabs when we hold the Formula One run with double World Champion Mika Hakkenen on November 30,'' Mr Adil said.

''We are involved in the programme because this is an area where our audience need help. Promos will be telecast in our MTv and VH1 networks,'' MTv Networks (India) General Manager Ashish Patil said.

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