Opinion | Letters
September 28, 2008
Letters to the Editor - September 28, 2008
- Gulf News
- Published: 23:40 September 27, 2008
Lending a helping hand
My vehicle broke down near Port Rashid, in Dubai, recently. This was my first such experience, and I felt completely helpless.
I contacted the Dubai police, who immediately rushed to the scene to help me out.
I truly appreciate the manner in which they handled the matter, and would like to thank them for the wonderful service that they extend to all residents.
From Mr Sachin Sampson
Dubai
Only solution
This is in response to the letter from Ms Behin Ardakani ("Sinking bridge", Gulf News, September 22).
I think the only solution to avoid the Floating Bridge from sinking is for the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to install a Salik tollgate on it. Problem solved.
From Mr K. N. Malek
Dubai
Loud noise
For the past six months, there has been ongoing construction at a site adjacent to our building.
The construction activity continues through the night and this has caused major inconvenience. I have a nine-month old daughter, who is disturbed due to the constant noise.
The authorities need to look into this matter, and prevent construction at night, especially in and around residential areas.
From Mr Vimal Kishen
Abu Dhabi
Lack of gratitude
This is in reference to Mr Nasser Usmani's letter, one of a number commenting on UAE driving standards in recent months ("Rude encounter", Gulf News, September 22).
I apologise if I have misunderstood, but he knew he was going to turn right and was in the second lane at that point.
He did not assess the road condition and apparently manoeuvred late. Yet, he expected the car on the right to give way.
This other driver could have endangered his own life, or that of others, by braking unexpectedly. There appears to be no appreciation that all drivers have a responsibility to drive considerately and safely.
From Mr D. Mewes
Al Ain
Designated lane
I live in Australia and had visited Dubai a few years ago. I plan to make another trip sometime next month, but I have heard that the traffic situation has become a big issue.
I would like to make a suggestion regarding this matter.
The authorities should designate a lane meant specifically for buses and trucks, and cars should not be allowed to use the same. This might help make the traffic smoother.
Additionally, the metro system will definitely assist the flow of traffic, since people would be willing to use it in order to get away from the ordeal of driving.
From Ms J. Zoabi
New South Wales, Australia
Technology helps
In the past, there have been a number of accidents, in the UAE, that involved school children.
It is high time the authorities concerned made it mandatory for all school buses, trucks and construction vehicles to install rear view cameras or reverse sensors on their vehicles.
There are a variety of cameras available in the market that are not very expensive.
I am sure such gadgets could prevent avoidable accidents, as the driver would be able to see if there was someone behind his vehicle.
From Mr Louie Gomez
Dubai
The long wait
I moved to Dubai along with my family, from South Africa, recently. I managed to get our residence visas, a house to live in and found a school for my children.
My driver's licence was converted, and after purchasing a Salik tag for my car, the wait for the confirmation message began.
Since I did not have my account number, I was unable to re-charge my account.
Every time I called the toll free number as assigned, the call centre staff promised to send the message within 48 hours.
From Mr Osborne Molatudi
Dubai
The management at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) replies: We would like to clarify that there was a misunderstanding in this case. The vehicle, which the tag was purchased for, was registered under Mr Molatudi's company's account.
The account number was sent through a text message to the company-registered mobile phone, and not to Mr Molatudi's personal number, as was expected.
Streamline process
I would like to request the authorities to intervene on the paid parking system in Karama, which is about to start soon.
As it is, people residing in the area don't have any space to park their cars. How can this new rule help resolve the problem?
Before introducing a paid parking system, the ideal thing to do would have been to provide ample parking space.
Finding a decent parking slot, in the evening, especially on returning home after work is impossible.
From Ms Litty Mathew
Dubai
Complete ban
Authorities need to make the rules against smoking stricter, since it is the root cause of many illnesses.
If smoking were discouraged, most hospitals and doctors would be able to care for other patients and reduce unnecessary workload.
Smoking is detrimental to society and the nation, so I request the authorities to enforce a ban on smoking for a healthier society.
From Mr Fred Chambers
Ontario, Canada
Disorganised
The Airport Road in Abu Dhabi is used for illegal parking and is lined up with cars that hinder school buses from picking children and taxis from reaching commuters.
The cars are literally parked in the middle of the road. Something needs to be done immediately or a casualty is definite in the days to come.
Schools have reopened and very young children have to stand on such roads for buses to pick them up.
From Ms Rai
Abu Dhabi
Full name withheld by request
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