Letters: November 25, 2009

Grateful resident

For the past three years I have been using separate bins for soaked waste and plastic or paper, but in order to eventually dispose them in the garbage chute of our building, we require a plastic bag. I carry jute or cloth bags for shopping and sometimes run short of plastic bags at home.

I would be grateful if the Dubai Municipality found a way to dispose our household waste in an eco-friendly manner and helped us avoid using plastic completely. On a different note, I would like to thank the Municipality on its bulk waste collection process.

Last month, I wondered how I would be able to dispose our dining table and chairs, which are of no use any more. When I called the Municipality, they said they would arrive at 6.30 the next morning. To my surprise, the workers were at my doorstep on time and took away the furniture. I got rid of some of our sofas in a similar manner last year, too.

From Ms Rama Malar, Dubai

Greatest gift

Reading the report on abandoned children in Gulf News really hurt and saddened me ("A look into the fate of abandoned children in the UAE", Gulf News, November 20).

The birth of a child has always been considered the greatest gift to mankind. I pity those people who get these gifts in spite of their undeserving nature.

But, I am really happy to learn that there are a number of people who are willing to assist these newborn babies and help them grow and succeed in life! I wonder why people can't avoid passing on their troubles to someone else.

From Mr Mitesh, Dubai

Tough life

This is a very good move by the Ministry of Labour. Some companies are using the global economic crisis as an excuse and delaying the salaries by at least four months. My company has not paid its employees for more than three months now. It is very difficult to manage our lifestyle and take care of our families. I support the Ministry's initiative.

From A Reader, Ajman

Please stop

I have noticed that several motorists never stop at the pedestrian crossings even if they see people waiting to cross the road. I think the authorities should impose strict fines on such motorists, as they proceed without any consideration for the pedestrians. At most traffic signals — especially when taking a right turn on any main road — motorists just drive through and pay no attention to pedestrians. I hope the authorities will look into this issue.

From A Reader, Abu Dhabi

Coordinated efforts

It is always good to hear of the efforts of the authorities in improving the standard of living ("Firms warned over salaries", Gulf News, November 20). But has anyone informed the companies directly?

It is great that the authorities are watching out for the employees' rights, but there are always two sides to a story. We hear of so many companies doing the oddest things, but there are also many companies in the UAE that stick to ethical standards, and are not being praised. I think there should be a more coordinated effort between the authorities and the companies.

From Mr Naim Houchaime, Dubai

A simple reminder

Water is very important for life and without it, no living thing can survive in this world. I am a student and I would like to share some tips to save water. Do not leave a tap running when not in use. Try to store rain water and recycle it.

Verify that your home is free from leakage and repair dripping faucets. Avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily.

Use the minimum amount of water needed for a bath. Wash fruits and vegetables in a pan full of water. Wash your pets in an area of your garden that needs watering. Drop your tissue in the trash instead of flushing it. Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your floor and kitchen. I hope you will follow my simple tips and help save the world.

From Mr Mohammad Hasin, Dubai

Constant suffering

This letter might voice the concerns of many mothers, like me, whose children suffer from asthma. My six-year-old son has been dealing with it since the age of two. When he has an asthma attack, it is an unbearable sight. Isn't there something we can do about it? Just relying on inhalers and nebulisers doesn't seem enough. The concerned authorities could help us by creating an association for asthmatic children, wherein doctors could help guide parents. My child has never tasted ice cream and does not know what cold water feels like. I have prevented him from having such cold items as I fear they might trigger another asthma attack. Recently, his school held a ‘Sports Day' and he was very excited about it. But unfortunately, he had trouble breathing the day before that. It was extremely painful for both him and me. Why can't these children lead a normal life?

From Ms Sophy Aqeel, Sharja