The catastrophic result of a moment of neglect

The catastrophic result of a moment of neglect

Frequent incidents of children falling to death from resident buildings in Sharjah and elsewhere must raise an alarm about how a moment of inattention can result in great tragedy (“Sharjah toddler falls to death from 11th floor”, Gulf News, March 27). It is quite baffling that in spite of repeated warnings by the authorities, there are still incidents where children are losing their lives. I am not sure whether these accidents have anything to do with unsafe design structures when constructing windows and balconies. Most of these tragedies could be avoided if the parents are a little more vigilant in keeping an eye on toddlers and children who tend to be hyperactive, trying to climb up objects, or push open doors and windows whenever they see an opportunity. This is the most basic awareness of child safety every parent should learn.

It is mere common sense that adults must not leave young children alone at home, no matter how smart they may think their children are. The authorities could also ensure that all buildings are fitted with security features that prevent accidental falls. No licence should be issued unless the relevant safety measures are established by property owners. Building security staff can also play a major role in ensuring the safety of residents, by being alert. If they suspect a tenant is far too ignorant about the safety of himself or his family members, it could be brought to the attention of those who are responsible. Safety is both an individual and collective responsibility.

From Mr Esmail Mohammad

Dubai

Badly behaved officials

It is really shocking that Shiv Sena Member of Parliament (MP) Ravindra Gaikwad, who assaulted an Air India (AI) official, is roaming freely in his hometown in Osmanabad district of Maharashtra, India (“Airlines association bars Gaikwad from flying with 5 carriers”, Gulf News, March 24). Ironically, he believes that what he did was right and says he is going to file a case against the AI staff member.

In such cases, I think airlines should launch an investigation to protect employees’ welfare. I hope the investigation would prove that any politician who misbehaves is not above the law and that public transport is not a political party’s property. Although the First Information Report (FIR) has been filed by the Delhi Police, why are they allowing the culprit to roam freely?

From Mr N. Mahadevan

Chennai, India

Arrogance on display

The behaviour displayed by Gaikwad against an Air India senior staff member should be strictly condemned. He assaulted the staff member with his sandal, which is completely unacceptable in a civil and democratic society. People are electing Members of Parliament to serve a primarily symbolic role, in order to enact good governance and serve the general interests of the public with respect towards all citizens, particularly seniors. Because Gaikwad was not given an executive seat, he demonstrated bad behaviour. With an open ticket for business class, he travelled on an all-economy flight without any executive seat. His arrogant behaviour and temper should not be tolerated by his political party.

The Parliament should also ban him from political candidacy so that any misdemeanour from public officials would be highlighted in the future. MPs should not think that they are superior to others. They are expected to serve by example to their people. The Indian government should implement some rules regarding this. The Parliament is a political system with the role of executing law and order for the development of the country. The Indian government should take some measures in disciplining arrogant government politicians, as they should be exemplary role models in society.

From Mr K. Ragavan

Bengaluru, India

UKs freehold property

Many people in the UAE view the UK as a safe place to invest in property. Recently, I made enquiries about buying an apartment in London. However, I am very concerned about the current practice of selling an apartment leasehold, where the freehold property or the owner of the land can impose an annual ground rent, which can be increased at any time. In the event the freehold is sold to a third party, the buyer becomes even more exposed to this complexity. As such, freehold properties are often very expensive and prohibitive to outright purchase.

From Mr Raymond

Dubai

Full name withheld on request

Do your part for the Earth

Earth Hour is a great environmental initiative towards action on climate change (“UAE landmarks embrace Earth Hour”, Gulf News, March 26). This is the 10th year in which, we are observing the importance of energy conservation and climate change. The initiative is gaining momentum and millions of people in the world are joining in, each year. Let us make our children understand and learn more about saving energy and valuing the importance of Earth Hour.

I think we should be conscious about energy conservation. We should switch off unnecessary lights and place electronic gadgets on standby. We can contribute in our own little ways to this cause. This awareness would create a new culture, promoting the conservation of energy, preservation of natural resources and protection of our environment. This should be a part of our daily life. Let us protect Mother Earth for future generations.

From Mr Eappen Elias

Dubai

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