From the Editors: Happy 12th birthday Dubai Metro

HAPPY 12 TH BIRTHDAY DUBAI METRO: As the Dubai Metro marks its 12th anniversary today, it would be no exaggeration to say that it is the lifeline of thousands of residents who use it on a daily basis not only to commute back and forth from work, but also for a variety of other purposes. Prompt, convenient and affordable, the Metro services have become so critical that residents – and visitors too – can’t imagine life in Dubai without them. A big thank you to Dubai Metro and all those who work tirelessly to run it. Happy birthday and many more. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

GOOD NEWS FOR KERALA ON NIPAH: The negative test results for 61 people who came into close contact with a 12-year-old child who succumbed to the Nipah virus is good news for Kerala. More samples will be tested and others are under observation. Once again, Kerala’s proactive approach and good medical care system have helped stymie fears of another virus on the rampage. Already the state is battling the coronavirus with strict restrictions on movement. Although the number of COVID-19 cases in the state comprise a large percentage of the national total, hospitals have not been overwhelmed and the situation seems to be looking up. At present the state can ill afford another virus attack and efforts to contain Nipah seem to be bearing fruit. [COMMENT BY: Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor]

USAIN BOLT SAYS HE HAS ‘GOT THAT ITCH’ FOR A COMEBACK TO ATHLETICS: There has been talk of Usain Bolt, the eight-time Olympic champion, making a sensational comeback to athletics. The 35-year-old is widely considered to be the greatest sprinter of all time and holds the world record for the 100 metres, 200 metres and 4 × 100 metres relay. But, the Jamaican, who retired in 2017, says that is it “too late” but admits he has “got that itch” for a dramatic return to the sport. Bolt says he was tempted by a possible return to the Tokyo Games, however his coach persuaded him otherwise. “I remember I went to him in 2019 and said 'what do you think about coming back for the Olympics?' And he looked at me and said 'don't even start'. So if it's not my coach, I'm not going to do it, because I believe in him and if he says no, it's no - but I've got that itch though.” It sounds like a non-starter, but crazier things have happened in the world of sport… [COEMMNT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Editor]

INSPIRING CHANGE THROUGH MUSIC: Veteran singer Stevie Wonder has thrown his weight behind a great cause — he will headline Global Citizen Live’s star-studded 24-hour event in Los Angeles this month. The concert is meant to raise money and create awareness around poverty, climate change and COVID-19 vaccinations. Other stars performing include H.E.R., Adam Lambert, Demi Lovato, Chloe x Halle and OneRepublic. These concerts are a great way to get people’s attention and inform them about world issues. Music connects us all and if it can inspire someone to make positive changes in life or donate to a cause, that’s a commendable thing. [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Features]