July 1, 2008

No longer interested
I am an animal lover and have been urging my parents to allow me to adopt a pet ("Uninvited guests threatening UAE ecosystem", Gulf News, June 25).

A few visits to the pet store and after reading this article and lots like it, I have come to the conclusion that it is a shame that animals that are almost on the verge of extinction are being traded at all.

Does removing these animals from their natural homes not destroy their ecosystem?

This is not only the fault of the buyers, who demand these animals and later abandon them, but also the traders involved.

Why is no awareness being raised regarding the plight of these animals?

As an expatriate resident of this country, I feel compelled to urge Gulf News and the local authorities to take action.
From Ms Sachi Oberoi
Abu Dhabi

Let them be
I am seven years old and love whales ("Japanese children get first-hand look at whale slaughter", Gulf News, June 28).

I ask the Japanese whale hunters to please stop killing, eating, and hunting the aquatic mammals.

Each time I read about whales being killed, it breaks my heart. Please let them be.
From Mr Mark William Noble
Dubai

A reality
Our expectations have finally become a reality (Abu Dhabi bus service is route to beating traffic woes", Gulf News, June 26).

The launch of this service is going to be a huge success. People will now be able to live far away as better frequency between buses would allow for easier and faster commuting.

It would be great if the bus routes were clearly mentioned on the bus stop.
From Mr B. N. Mohammad
Abu Dhabi

Experience talking
Having lived abroad, my international experience tells me that this is an effective strategy.

These measures from the Abu Dhabi government will be more effective in encouraging people to use free public transport instead of personal vehicles.

This will further reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. Good going!
From Mr Gaston Dias
Dubai

A few suggestions
I am a Singapore national and have lived in Abu Dhabi for the past 22 years. I remember using three buses, one-way and on a daily basis to get to my university.

Thereby, I would like to make a few suggestions. Visual maps need to be clearly displayed, as not all commuters may be literate.

A separate section must be designated for ladies. Some buses must be made available in remote and far flung areas of the city as well.

Lastly, there must be designated car parking pools in or nearby the main city bus stops for people to leave their cars and take the bus.

Although I own a car, I am excited to try the new bus service.
From A Reader
Abu Dhabi
Name withheld by request

Happy with change
Introducing a free bus service is a superb idea. I'm positive that this will help control unnecessary traffic blockades to a certain extent.

I wish the authorities great success. I'm happy to be a witness to this change.
From Mr Gopinath Ketenjoth
Abu Dhabi

Way to go
The public bus service plan unveiled by the Abu Dhabi government is indeed welcome news.

I only hope that it will be a user-friendly service, unlike the existing service, with proper destination signage and routes in English and Arabic.

It would be ideal if the route information were publicised.

Additionally, there should be intra-city services through the main streets as well, for office-goers to avail the facility, instead of using taxis.

Attention should be given to various locations of the city, especially shopping malls to make it more convenient for families to travel.
From Mr K. S. Panicker
Abu Dhabi

Impressive
I am a regular reader of Gulf News. The articles and photos are simply fantastic. The most impressive thing, however, is the news coverage.

Gulf News is surely on its way to becoming one of the most readable dailies, not just in the UAE, but across the globe as well.
From Mr Sunilkumar Biradar
Dubai

Dirty ride
I have been to Dubai a few times on holiday. The only thing I can find fault in is the unhygienic taxis. Some are filthy, with stains on the passenger seats and the smell of food nearly made me sick.

I hope this is rectified, as it is a pity, because Dubai is a wonderful place for tourists.
From Mr Matthew McNulty
UAE

Giving a chance
It's great that Dubai encourages various career and job fairs on a regular basis. However, job fairs must be held for expatriate residents as well.

This would help young graduates and newcomers to a great extent. Criteria must be set as a benchmark to gauge the most deserving of candidates.

A lot of people from around the world comprise Dubai. Give all a chance, please.
From Mr B. M. Ahmad
Dubai