Letters: July 26, 2010

Stop misusing spaces
This is with reference to the report on people misusing the parking spaces for people with special needs ("Misusing special parking spaces violation of rights", Gulf News, July 19). I haven't seen a lot of this happening. But, I do think there should be stricter laws regarding the illegal use of parking spaces especially designed for physically challenged people. The people who misuse the parking spots don't really understand its purpose and importance. So, once in a while an awareness programme should be conducted to remind the public to refrain from using specially designed parking lots if they don't require these services.
From Mr P. Mohan
Dubai

Community photographers
Reading the various sections of Gulf News, I see one thing in common - the love for photography. As a passionate, amateur photographer, more than techniques and tips, creativity and inspiration is a very important factor, especially local inspiration. I am excited when I see a huge write up about photography in the Weekend Review or the reader picture of the day in the main newspaper. Searching for inspiration can be frustrating. The search for a source of "local flavour" can be daunting and finding a continuous local platform for photographers is difficult. Even though there are several professional photographers, giving a chance to regular readers is definitely motivating, especially if they are crowned photographers of the month. Hopefully with this initiative, maybe one day I'll be there in the Gulf News hall of fame for photographers of the month!
From Ms Anureet Kaur
Dubai

Save water
Water is the essence of life! It is quite heartbreaking to see the plight of millions of people suffering from the consequences of drought. But, I feel proud to be part of a country where much importance is given to global issues. The vision really focuses far into the future when one realises the importance of conservation. Recently, I read about the authorities' plan to introduce equipment to reduce the consumption of water. I feel if the sensors fitted in public washbasins are made compulsory in every home, much water can be saved. Secondly if toilet tanks can be made to use less water, that can also go a long way in reducing wastage. Students and young children like myself have a great role in spreading the importance of water conservation.
From Mr Vedant Pradeep
Abu Dhabi

Benefits of raw food
I have been on a raw food diet since 1995. It was a turning point in my life. I am 56 now and feel absolutely fantastic. I exercise every day on a mini trampoline, have boundless energy and am almost indefatigable. A typical day for me includes a fruit smoothie, orange juice, ginger water, a few bananas, an avocado, an apple and a salad for supper. Occasionally I have a bit of cheese, hummus or bread, but these things whilst delicious do not agree with me. Protein is found in almost every fruit or vegetable in small amounts. The dairy products are pasteurised, rendering them devoid of any nutritional value. I do not suffer from malnutrition or anaemia. A diet of raw, unprocessed fruit and vegetables leads to exceptional good health and a disease free life. I would love to read about people trying this way of life.
From Ms Cheryl Jobe
UAE

Incorrect rates
For the past several days, I have been reading the business section in Gulf News and have noticed that the rates published for the Karachi Stock Exchange are not correct. I would be grateful if the section could rectify these rates and publish the correct ones according to the Karachi Stock Exchange.
From Mr Ameen Khan
UAE

Editor's note: Gulf News apologises for the incorrect stock data published and for the inconvenience caused to our attentive readers. The reason is a technical problem in the data feed from the Karachi Stock Exchange via an international agency. We are working closely with our data provider on the issue and will fix the problem as soon as possible.

Where do we park?
This is in reference to the community report on trash bins that are covering parking spaces ("Trash bins in place of cars", Gulf News, July 19). I do not think that removing the bins is the right answer. By removing them, you will not increase the space for parking cars, but instead increase the trash all over the Karama area, Dubai. As it is you find garbage in all the corners of Karama. By removing the trash bins it will make the situation worse and not suitable for living. I suggest the construction of multi-storey car parks instead.
From Mr Aban Patel
Dubai