December 6

Gem of a person

I went through a series of bitter experiences before finally obtaining my driving licence, after 18 months of gruelling practice. However, on the day I passed my test in Al Ghusais, I was fortunate to meet a real gem of a person in a Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) official. During the process, he was extremely helpful, cooperative and understanding. He made me forget everything I had been through up until that moment. I have nothing but praise for him, as he truly understood the difficulties a driving student faces and he was more than willing to help us all. RTA - keep up the good work. From Mr Ameen M
Sharjah

A better world

The siege in Mumbai has left me disturbed ("India clears last Mumbai siege site", Gulf News, December 1). It came as a wake-up call for the Indian government. After the attacks, a lot of Indians do not feel safe in their own country. I hope the youth of today would learn from such incidents and endeavour to work towards building a world of peace and not destruction. Moreover, I am touched by the selfless acts of several people who were on the scene. I am beginning to believe that good does exist in a world that can often be unkind. Ultimately, a handful of peace-loving individuals can make a world of difference.
From Ms Mary John
Dubai

Easy pickings

A house divided is always easy pickings. However, horrific as the Mumbai siege was, one unshakeable fact has emerged - Indians are united. It does not matter whether a person is from Mumbai, Bangalore, Kerala or Assam. When India is hit, we all bleed. This is why everyone pitches in to wipe tears and mend fences. It is time for politicians to put their country before themselves, for once. They need to focus on building the amazing potential that lies within the country. Only when Indians unite, they will be safe, for nobody would dare challenge the might of the nation.
From Ms Bina Mathews
Dubai

Stranded twice

Recently, I was disappointed for the second time when I planned to go out with my family and friends. Despite waiting for two hours for a taxi in Satwa, none came. Additionally, we tried to get a taxi from Al Jafiliya, but we encountered the same problem. Eventually, we had no choice but to return home. I was shocked that this situation occurred for the second time. It forced me to think about how serious the issue has become, especially because I would not know what to do if there was an emergency. I think the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) should find a lasting solution for the transportation problem.
From Mr Shahab Mariya Khan
Dubai

Nothing to gain

The massive turn out of voters in Kashmir has sent a message to the separatist Hurriyat Conference and its policies ("Valley voters flock to polling centres", Gulf News, December 1). Kashmir requires good governance and its people should be able to enjoy education and health benefits. In the name of so-called freedom, the separatists have misled the public in the past. Nobody can gain by dividing the great nation.
From Dr Mohammad Shiraz
Dubai

Unresolved issues

Recently, I deposited Dh500 in an etisalat machine, in Dubai Internet City. The machine accepted the cash, but triggered an error. I faxed the complaint to etisalat but the customer service was very inefficient. I have made several calls since, but the issue has not been resolved yet.
From Mr Muralidharan P. T.
Dubai

The management of etisalat replies:

etisalat regrets the inconvenience caused to the customer. The amount has now been credited to his account.

Good decision

The decision to have a minimum starting fare of Dh20 in taxis is very good ("Meters of some taxis yet to be updated for extra fare", Gulf News, December 2).

It would help reduce traffic congestion between Dubai and Sharjah. Additionally, a greater number of commuters would opt for public transport from now on.
From Mr Praveen
Dubai

Adding to woes

I think the new taxi fare just adds to the woes of commuters in Dubai and Sharjah. People who have to travel to their workplace have no option but to pay the extra charge.
From Mr Gautam
Sharjah

Start small

I think taxis plying between Sharjah and Dubai could have started with a minimum fare of Dh10, instead of Dh20. Charging commuters an extra amount is a good move, but they should not be overburdened.
From Ms Naina Nair}
Sharjah

Travel alternatives

I will find other ways to travel. I do not want to use taxis between Sharjah and Dubai anymore.
From Mr Sikander
Sharjah

Real hassle

The additional fare of Dh20 comes as a real hassle for travellers between the two emirates, as the existing taxi charges are already quite steep.
From Mr Ahmad
Dubai