Letters: November 28, 2009

Look at the human toll
India complains about the Mumbai attackers not being brought to justice while Pakistan criticises the fact that India did not investigate the Samjhauta Express tragedy. Amidst the recriminations, thousands of people have died and continue to die each day. Bomb blasts are witnessed across both Pakistan and India almost every day. Terrorism can occur anywhere and should be condemned and stood up to. Sadly, we have compartmentalised ourselves on the lines of religion and country. I hope the governments of both India and Pakistan stop looking at the loss of innocent lives as that of an ‘Indian’ or a ‘Pakistani’. If we think as humans, perhaps we will realise that the death of another human is the death of a creation of the Almighty.
From Ms Irim Ahmad
Dubai

Develop interest
Lucky are the young ones who are closely watched and guided by parents ("Internet blamed for reading habit decline", Gulf News, November 21). I have three children and believe that the internet or television is not to blame for a decline in reading. It is in fact dependent on the availability of parents to help their children develop a love for it. We must closely watch them to see if they are reading at least 30 minutes a day. For children above the age of two - sit and read with them. Make dramatic sounds and use different voices to arouse their interest. They will do the same when they try to read. Providing reading material is not enough. Remember, education begins at home.
From Ms Corazon Tarcena
Dubai

Role model
The present global financial crisis is a threat to economic development. Countries around the world should come together and develop an appropriate formula for it. The role of Dubai in this regard should not be underestimated. It is one of the secure investment portfolios of the world. It has good infrastructure, less operational costs and a liberal economic policy, which attracts foreign investors. Governments should pump additional investments in their country’s economy to help revive them. Dubai is definitely a model for this.
From Mr Ajith Kumar
Dubai

Dedicated lanes
The speed limit on some of the roads still needs revision (“Fatality rates on Dubai roads drop considerably”, Gulf News, November 23). Most of us are scared to drive small cars due to the reckless driving by pick-up trucks, vans and trailers. It is very important to introduce special lanes or speed limits for buses and other heavy vehicles.
From Mr Shihab
Ras Al Khaimah
Website comment

Blocking lanes
Very often, we see vans and minibuses in the fast track on major highways in the UAE. The motorists do not allow other vehicles to drive ahead and intentionally block the fast lane, at the same time putting the passengers on board in danger. The authorities need to introduce a ban on vans and minibuses from using the fast lane, in order to minimise accidents caused by them.
From Mr Mujeeb
Dubai
Website comment

Too fast
As a commuter, I believe that there are still too many accidents occurring on a daily basis, especially on Shaikh Zayed Road. It is a good idea if the speed limit on that stretch could be reduced to minimise the number of accidents. I also noticed that minibus drivers are one of the most reckless on the roads. Please, drive safely and not too fast. Just think of your loved ones and the families of others.
From A Reader
Dubai
Website comment

More aware
Slowly but steadily, people are becoming more aware of the rules. Credit goes to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)! I hope we all start becoming considerate of the safety of our lives as well as those of others.
From Mr Jamal
Dubai
Website comment

Good people
I absent-mindedly left my wallet at a hypermarket, recently. On realisation, I panicked and immediately called my bank to cancel my debit card. I was informed that nobody had made any purchases, yet. I then drove to the hypermarket hoping for the best. I spoke to the customer service department and after hearing my story, they made a few calls and directed me to security. As I walked a few steps forward whilst saying a prayer, I was happy to see that the security personnel had my lost wallet. A customer had found it. I verified that it was mine and quickly checked to see if anything was missing — to my relief, everything was in place. It’s reassuring to note that a few good people still exist.
From A Reader
Dubai
Name withheld by request