Speedsters causing a nuisance in Sharjah

Sharjah

We have been living in the Al Taawun area of Sharjah for the past three years. This is one of the most populous residential neighbourhoods in the emirate and is home to countless families. However, despite this, there are no places for children to play or families to have fun. Due to the lack of recreational facilities, children are forced to play on the main roads or on the grassy patch next to the road and risk their lives.

The only available destination for picnic-goers in the area is the stretch of the road around the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce building. But sadly, the spot is no longer safe thanks to inconsiderate speedsters who gather here and participate in races with absolutely no concern for the children playing nearby and their families.

During the late evenings, youngsters are seen gathering with their cars, some of which are modified. They perform dangerous stunts such as skids, burn-outs and doughnuts, where skid marks are left on the asphalt surface (as seen in the photograph). They engage in speeding and sudden braking when a child unknowingly comes onto the road while playing. This creates noise pollution and causes inconvenience to residents and visitors. I dread thinking about what might happen if the drivers are unable to stop or control their vehicles in time.

Another issue that needs to be highlighted here is the lack of pedestrian crossings in the area, which makes it a challenge for families with children to make it through without risking their lives and running between major roads where the traffic flow is usually very heavy.

I request the concerned authorities to kindly take strict action against such reckless drivers who flout rules and commit serious offences that can prove fatal. Their vehicles should be confiscated and licences should be suspended for a few months to deter offenders from repeating the violations. Also, installing radars or cameras in the area to nab these drivers will be a good move.

Moreover, the area is in urgent need of purpose-built parks and playgrounds where children can play and have fun without having to worry about the traffic or risking their lives. Lastly, parents should also be vigilant of their children and must prevent them from going onto roads while playing games.

— The reader is a student based in Sharjah.

Be a community reporter. Tell us what is happening in your community. Send us your videos and pictures at readers@gulfnews.com