Opinion | Letters

April 16, 2009

Letters To The Editor - April 16, 2009

  • Gulf News
  • Published: 14:18 April 16, 2009
  • Gulf News

Terrible manners!
I am writing with reference to a visit by my mother to a doctor at a hospital in Dubai, last week. He is a consultant neurosurgeon. I believe it is the duty of a doctor to be patient and caring toward his or her patients - and never aggressive.

Unfortunately, the neurosurgeon was every bit as hostile as a person can be.

For no apparent reason, he kept losing his temper and instead of giving proper attention and medication, he could only make sarcastic and confused comments.

My request to hospitals and medical centres is to please ensure that employees are professionals who do their job properly and honestly!
From Ms Urooj Najeeb
Dubai

A need for change
The credit shield or credit card insurance rates offered by banks are becoming a big problem. We are ready to accept the service, but the amount must be practical.

There is a huge difference in the rates offered by banks, as some actually charge rates that are not even paid for life insurance! Additionally, they are often doing so without informing the customer.

This issue needs to be addressed by banks and the concerned authorities. We need a systematic method, which levies charges that are reasonable and does not exploit people.

Everyone is using a credit card, nowadays. If they lose their job, I agree that banks have a right to protect themselves. But there is always room for logic.

The amount should be equal across the board and immediate action would be highly appreciated. Banks also need to provide customers with an appropriate platform wherein they can raise such complaints.
From Mr Nanu Viswanathan
UAE

Waiting eagerly
As residents, we are really looking forward to the Dubai Metro (“Metro: Residents look forward to trying out rail transport'', Gulf News, April 5).

I hope the ticket rates would be affordable, so that we could use the mode of transport on a daily basis. I am eager to use the Metro with my children!
From Ms Prema Rajendran
Dubai

Create a balance
The taxi fare increase to Dh20 for journeys from Dubai to Sharjah is unreasonable (“Dh20 starting fare to Sharjah'', Gulf News, April 6).

I agree that the commute from Dubai to other emirates has been hectic and tiresome for taxi drivers, who spend most of the time in traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

But by increasing the fare, taxi drivers will refuse to halt or take passengers to destinations that are close by. If the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) feels this measure will help ease passengers' commute to other emirates, I think they are mistaken.

Instead, they could increase the overall taxi fares by two or three per cent and allow taxis to take passengers to and from other emirates. This would solve everyone's problem.

Balancing the taxi fares would help residents and taxi drivers lead a better life.
From Mr Prasad S. Warrier
Dubai

Not worth it
I do not agree with the Roads and Transport Authority's (RTA) minimum charge of Dh10 for taxis taking passengers on short distances in Dubai (“RTA abolishes grace waiting time for taxis'', Gulf News, April 9).

There is a great need for more reasonable taxi fares. I would rather take the public bus and I am eagerly looking forward to the Dubai Metro.
From Ms Graice
Dubai

Cancel charges
A lion's share of the taxi service is being used by tourists and residents. Those who do not own cars are forced to use taxis.

In some areas, public transport is not easily available. Considering all these facts, I urge the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to please cancel waiting charges.
From Mr Pothen Philip
Dubai

Reasons to consider
Instead of suspending students, I think they require some counselling sessions. Perhaps they have problems at home or with the teacher.

Additionally, they may have a weak understanding of the subjects.
From Ms Munira Abdul Rahman
Dubai

Already suffering
Why should passengers be made to suffer for the wrong attitude of taxi drivers? They are supposed to provide efficient service for passengers.

Instead, they are rude and often misbehave - especially when passengers wish to go a short distance only.

By charging for the waiting period, only the tough taxi drivers will benefit. I hope the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will look into the benefit of passengers, too, as many people would not be able to afford additional fares.
From Ms Moira
Dubai

Rising heartbeats
There is always shocking news coming from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Public transport is meant to be cheaper than other alternatives. One should pay for the service he or she gets.

Why should people pay a minimum of Dh10 for nothing? Each day, you will end up paying more than the previous day - it is the worst thing that could happen to anyone.

When the taxi meter shows the fare increasing, your heart beats more rapidly, as you wonder whether your wallet contains enough money.

In the end, it is only the common man that is being affected. The RTA should make transportation cheaper.
From Mr Asif Khan
Dubai

Be prepared
I believe the Education Zone in Ras Al Khaimah took the right decision when they suspended the students (“Ten students suspended from night schools for irregular attendance'', Gulf News, April 9).

It is a lesson for such students and would urge them to improve.

But I would also like to advise schools to check the contact details of students' families beforehand, rather than waiting for a situation like this to occur.
From Mr Clifton Lobo
Sharjah

Staying true
Gulf News is the best. I really appreciate the fact that the newspaper remains true to its roots. It is its sincerity and truthfulness that makes it the best newspaper in the nation.

Special congratulations for including the Your Turn section.
From Ms Alya Ansari
UAE

Gulf News
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