A world of peace
The last week of September is considered to be International Peace Week. However, as you read this letter, someone around the world might be getting killed or tortured. As a 13-year-old I often wonder - what is the point of a peace week? During this period, the school I study in encouraged pupils to pay Dh5 for charitable causes and dress in white. Additionally, we created posters and wrote letters to promote a peaceful environment. However, it saddens me to know that people continue to fight over trivial issues. I believe we should not give up hope. Someday, peace might conquer the world. Until then, I will continue to wear white clothes and participate in Peace Week. I urge everyone to resolve conflicts with compromises, not violence!
From Ms Pierina Roffler
Dubai
Unheard complaints
Traffic congestion in Sharjah has had a great impact on its residents. However, grievances and complaints about the daily commute to Dubai often go unheard. It takes me approximately 15 minutes to drive to work. However, this is only possible if I leave home at 6.15am, after which the traffic congestion turns ugly. I wonder how travellers are able to reach Sharjah Airport on time, especially if they have a flight to catch. More roads, bridges and traffic signals will probably help ease the problem. I urge the authorities to find a lasting solution.
From Mr Justin Pereira
Sharjah
Why pay?
Motorists are forced to pay Salik even if they cross the tollgates during off-peak hours, on weekdays or weekends. I request the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to tell us why this is the case, especially when the roads are free. If the main objective is to manage traffic, motorists should be exempt from paying Salik during off-peak hours, especially during early hours and after 7pm.
From A Reader
UAE
Name withheld by request
Reason to cheer
Sachin Tendulkar, a record-breaking Indian cricketer and Aravind Adiga, the Booker Prize winner, exemplify excellence with their achievements ("'He is a gem in our sport'" Gulf News, October 18). While Adiga has proven that India is rich in literary talent, Tendulkar has again underscored that he is arguably the greatest batsman in the world. In fact, Tendulkar surpassed the 12,000 run mark the same day Mumbai Stock Exchange's Sensitive Index (Sensex) slipped under 10,000. While the global economy is in danger, it is good to know that the human spirit is still victorious.
From Mr Ranjan Matthew
Dubai
Genius at work
Sachin Tendulkar's flawless batting in Mohali, enabled him to surpass West Indian Brian Lara's record. Additionally, he became the first batsman to cross 12,000 runs in Tests. It is interesting to note that he played his first Test under the captaincy of K. Srikkanth. Moreover, when Tendulkar broke Lara's record, his former captain was appointed as the chairman of the selection committee. I have no doubt that greater laurels are in store for him.
From Mr Ganapathi Ramani
Tamil Nadu, India
Accept change
Self-service petrol stations are not a new concept. ("Self-service begins at ENOC petrol stations", Gulf News, October 17). Over the years, this has become common in various countries. Change is something residents need to accept. However, I cannot imagine motorists getting out of their vehicles, managing a gas pump nozzle and waiting till the fuel tank fills up.
From A Reader
Dubai
Name withheld by request
Time wasted
Around the world, countries are facing economic difficulties. In the UAE, I believe the first step to safeguard the country's future lies in solving issues related to traffic. Residents spend most of their time driving or being stuck in traffic. This leads to the wastage of fuel and loss of time. The authorities should find methods to resolve this issue.
From Mr Amitabh Sharma
Dubai
Good effort
After 31 years of employment in Dubai, I returned to my home country to be with my family, recently. However, I am still a proud and loyal reader of Gulf News. I have made it a habit to read the newspaper regularly ever since it first launched. The presentation and appearance of the newspaper is very pleasing, too. I would like to congratulate everyone responsible for bringing out great editions.
From Mr Mathew Varghese
Kerala, India
Chaotic situation
Since the introduction of new taxis in Abu Dhabi , the transport problem has intensified, especially during peak hours. I believe the reasons for this are evident. Firstly, new taxis are only available when offices are open. Secondly, with the arrival of new taxis, old ones have been removed. Several taxi drivers are keen on taking passengers only to specific areas. One often finds such drivers at the airport. Since there are no designated queues, many passengers end up fighting for the few available taxis.
From Mr R. Razeq
Abu Dhabi
Grace period
It truly pinches motorists when they discover they have received a parking fine for being just five minutes late. I request the authorities to be lenient and allow motorists a grace period of at least five minutes, before fining.
From Ms Ritu Mehta
Dubai
