December 31, 2008

Breath of fresh air
Letters in Gulf News, related to the Iraqi journalist, who threw his shoes at US President George W. Bush, came as a breath of fresh air. Usually, one finds that the letters to the editor become monotonous, with people churning out more and more complaints every day. They range from issues regarding the shortage of taxis and rising rents and prices to inefficient public transport. I too face many of these hurdles daily, but try to count my blessings instead of my losses. The authorities are well aware of these hurdles, so why should we waste more time and energy by raving and ranting? Let us enjoy the unparalleled serenity of the UAE and realise that the glass is half full.
From Ms Gulnaz Hussaini
Dubai

The sleeping sickness
This is in response to a report published in Gulf News, about a woman who has had a successful career, despite suffering from an incurable illness. I suffer from a sleeping disorder called narcolepsy. In this condition, concentrating during daytime becomes very difficult, as I am often overcome by excessive sleepiness and can fall asleep without realising. Sometimes, I even have to park my car by the road and nap for 15 to 30 minutes, before continuing my journey. My employer understands my problem and allows me short naps during the day. Moreover, he ensures that everyone in the organisation understands my problem and cooperates with me.
From A Reader
Dubai
Name withheld by request

Save our girls
Gulf News report on women being targets of crime showed statistical indicators and defined the global problem, but did not provide remedies or solutions ("Women target of crime across country", Gulf News, December 26). Serious measures must be taken to ease the plight of women across the world. Most countries believe in equality for all, but along the way, women are often branded as the "weaker" sex. Surely, with time, their prospects would change too. But today, we must put in all our efforts to save the girl child.
From Ms Candy Dubey
Fujairah

More on Canada
I was thrilled to read about Canada in Gulf News, although news from that region was placed along with the US ("Winter weather wreaks havoc in US", Gulf News, December 24). Generally, Gulf News is a balanced newspaper and represents all nationalities living in the UAE. However, I think if news from Canada is published on a daily basis, it would truly make many Canadians happy, especially expatriates living in this wonderful country. In fact, the UAE is home to a large community of Canadians. They would love to read about their homeland in local newspapers.
From A Reader
Ajman
Name withheld by request

Early warning
Some roads in the UAE have signboards that consist of statements such as "No more petrol pumps beyond this point". If a motorist were driving a vehicle with an almost-empty petrol tank, he or she would be helpless, since it would be impossible to turn the car around on the main highway. I request that such signs be placed at least 500 metres before the last petrol pump. It would help inform motorists and give them more options. In this manner, they would be able to refill their car's petrol tank before it is too late.
From Mr Syed Ahmad
Sharjah

Saying 'no'
Recent reports on animal deaths show a sorry state of affairs ("Plastic-related animal deaths still very high", Gulf News, December 26). I often carry a sturdy shopping bag from home and make it a point to stop supermarket staff members from packing my groceries into plastic bags. I tell them: "I say no to plastic". Even if I do accept plastic bags in an emergency, I recycle them by using them to line my garbage bin. All supermarkets should charge a price of at least Dh1 per plastic bag. It would motivate people to carry their own eco-friendly bags and stop them from using plastic.
From Ms Natty Dias
Dubai

Stop the scourge
If the situation has worsened to an extent where even innocent animals are being affected, why don't we stop using plastic entirely? It should be banned in places such as the desert, in parks and other tourist spots. I urge residents to volunteer in awareness campaigns and work together to get rid of plastic.
From Mr Karthik Raja
Dubai

Driving nightmare
I have often noticed motorists in Dubai driving at high speeds, overtaking without indicating and creating unnecessary chaos at roundabouts. Very few use indicators for their original purpose and I find this maddening! I have often tolerated frenzied honking and rude gestures, in my determination to be safe rather than sorry. I urge the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to please devise strong measures to monitor motorists who do not indicate at roundabouts. Driving around Dubai is becoming quite a nightmare these days.
From Ms Asma Ehsan
Dubai

Call for aid
A few days ago, I saw an image on the front page of Gulf News showing a young boy injured in an attack in Gaza ("Gaza children bear brunt of blockade", Gulf News, December 27). Ever since, I have been unable to sleep. At one point, I looked at my two-year-old daughter and asked myself how the parents of the injured boy must feel. It pains me to read about the sufferings of children in such war-torn areas. I urge the world to come to their aid.
From Ms Neelam Nigar
UAE

Eye for an eye
As a South African, I might have a very limited understanding of the complicated issues between Israel and Palestine, but as a human being, I recognise suffering and would like to voice my opinion ("Gazans see no ray of hope", Gulf News, December 28). I was shocked and saddened by the tragic images of despair displayed in Gulf News. I did not see any difference between groups of people, only suffering. In the words of Indian political leader, Mahatma Gandhi - "An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind". I think we must leave revenge to the Almighty, as He is more righteous and powerful than any human being.
From Mr Sanet Viljoen
Sharjah
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Resolving the crisis
I believe that the Palestine-Israel conflict has to be resolved by Arabs.
From Mr Noel Malicdem
Al Ain
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Horrible times
All freedom-loving nations of the world must stand against Israel in this horrible time.
From Mr Abu Maruf
Helsinki, Finland
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Good decision
I feel Dubai Police did the right thing by cautioning residents about drink-driving ("Dubai Police caution against drink driving on New Year's eve", Gulf News, December 29). This would help limit accidents during the holidays. Additionally, I feel such cautionary messages could be displayed on the traffic intelligence system to warn partygoers.
From Mr Brijesh
Dubai
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Providing guidance
Drink-driving is bad for everyone. After being fined or penalised, people would think twice before driving under the influence of alcohol. It would help reduce the number of accidents. Residents should be kept informed about such measures through the media. Since the UAE includes a mix of nationalities, a guidebook should be given to newcomers, to alert them about what is permitted and what is not.
From Mr Nasser Al Zaai
Dubai
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