From the Editors: Dubai makes e-scooting safe, convenient and popular

E-SCOOTING SAFELY IN DUBAI: The popularity of e-scooters has skyrocketed globally, and so also the risk of incidents. In Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) quickly responded by regulating the sector — spelling out safety rules and issuing permits. By making it easy and free to obtain a permit (open to anyone aged 16 and above who passes an online awareness training course), Dubai encourages the safe use of environment-friendly e-scooters. Even tourists are fond of it, accounting for 29 per cent of the 38,102 permits issued in the first three months of the online registration platform. (By Faisal Masudi, Assistant Editor)

DUBAI’S NEW PROPERTY RULES: The Dubai Land Department’s new rules are pretty straightforward — any broker or property portal wanting to list or advertise any unit has to do it with the owner’s approval. Or else, there will be stiff penalties, as evidenced by the Dh50,000 fine handed out to a broker. The DLD has set out these requirements clearly. So, any broker who failed to read the memo will learn it at a stiff price. (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

A STAR FIGHTING FOR HER LIFE: Actress Anne Heche is not expected to survive the injuries she sustained in a fiery car crash on August 5. Heche was speeding through the Mar Vista neighbourhood when she ploughed into a house, causing a fire that required 59 firefighters 65 minutes to put out. It is suspected that the 53-year-old actress was under the influence when the crash occurred. It’s a tragic situation that again highlights the scourge of substance abuse, especially in the entertainment industry, and how it can instantly destroy lives. (By Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor)

CRICKET FRANCHISE LEAGUES ARE HERE TO STAY: Cricketer Trent Boult pulling out of New Zealand contract and the rise of several Twenty20 leagues have unleashed shockwaves in the cricketing world. But, there’s no cause for worry. A similar situation arose when the Indian Premier League was launched in 2008, and some players, who could have played a few more years for their countries, called it quits to extend their playing days. It will continue for players in the twilight of their careers, but new players will replace them. The cycle will continue. (By A.K.S. Satish, Sports Editor)

A REMINDER FOR CLIMATE ACTION: France is battling a monster wildfire in in the southwest that has already destroyed around 7,400 hectares. Britain has declared an amber extreme heat warning, as the heatwave is expected affect health, transport and working conditions. These are part of events, triggered by record temperatures and droughts across Europe that are blamed on climate change. With temperatures rising worldwide, government should make diligent efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions. (By Shyam A. Krishna, Senior Associate Editor)