Striving for success
Congratulations to Gulf News for its spectacular jute bag initiative ("Gulf News jute bags: Art and conservation", October 2). With such innovative schemes, the newspaper has established that it does not just keep readers informed and updated, but also takes the effort to think, strive and act for the well being of the society. It is equally important for all individuals and corporations in the region to act for the betterment of the environment. As members of the community, we should all learn a lesson from Gulf News - on how we can improve ourselves and behave in a socially responsible manner.
From Mr Ghulam Khan
Dubai
Full support
I was pleasantly surprised to receive two colourful Gulf News jute bags recently. This is a very good initiative and I would like to extend my congratulations to those who worked hard to make it possible. The jute bags have been designed so beautifully, I would proudly use it to support the newspaper's Go Green initiative.
From Mr Santosh Appukuttan
UAE
A step further
I appreciate Gulf News' efforts to reduce the usage and consumption of plastic bags, through the distribution of jute bags. However, this is not enough. For most residents, a large quantity of used newspapers and plastic bags still ends up in the dustbin. In order to encourage recycling, I request the introduction of a national recycling drive in various areas around UAE. All shopping malls could also be requested to set up collection points, wherein the public can return used newspapers and plastic bags.
From Mr Karthik Sundaram
Abu Dhabi
Small step
The distribution of jute bags is a welcome step in the efforts to go green, but in the grand scheme of things, it is but a small step. Almost a year on since the construction sector was instructed to comply with the criteria of green buildings, there has been no further progress in this regard. In fact, guidelines have only been set for the type of lighting used in buildings, air-conditioning controls, roofing and other such aspects. With thousands of square feet of buildings being planned or under construction, it is extremely important to strictly enforce the environmental laws.
From Mr Thomas Power
Dubai
Passing the baton
As readers, we truly appreciate the efforts taken by Gulf News to go green. I would like to thank the team for distributing its colourful eco-friendly bags. Now, the time has come to take this initiative a step further. I urge supermarkets and grocery stores to start using paper bags for selling vegetables and other items.
From Ms Srilatha P.
Dubai
Taking the lead
I admire Gulf News' bold step in providing jute bags for its subscribers. The newspaper really did walk the talk. However, it is impossible for such an initiative to endure without additional support. Hypermarkets and supermarkets must now take the lead in providing paper bags, in which perishable items can be wrapped and safely transported. Additionally, nationwide campaigns would be welcome, wherein collection points for paper, plastic and other items could be introduced. Perhaps such initiatives already exist, but I know of no such facility in Al Ain.
From Mr Kanwar Hayat
Al Ain
Holiday bags
As a Gulf News subscriber, I was very pleased to receive the complimentary jute bags recently. The bags were very useful for our trips during the Eid Al Fitr holidays!
From Mr Nazar Kaderkunji
Abu Dhabi
Bad taste
I found it in bad taste to see Osama Bin Laden's photograph among the leaders and visionaries who impacted the world, and whom Gulf News righly called "stars" ("People who brought change to our world 1978-2008, Gulf News, September 30). Bin Laden surely did not deserve a place among the luminaries who chose to devote their lives to making this world a better place.
From Mr Tapan Bhattacharya
Dubai
Wonderful experience
As an employee at a store in a shopping mall, I was getting quite bored waiting for customers. The premises were empty so I decided to browse through Gulf News' 30th anniversary special supplement, titled "The Story of Success". I started reading the edition at around 11am, but continued to read uninterrupted, right until 3pm. I even forgot to have my lunch! It was a wonderful experience and I thank Gulf News for all the information. I urge the newspaper to provide readers with more information about the history of the UAE.
From Mr Ameet Kumar
Dubai
Consider this
When reading the newspaper, I often come across letters from readers who regularly complain about the increasing prices of commodities. However, I urge these people to spare a thought for the underlying reason of the rise in prices. It is a fact that prices start to increase only when demand exceeds supply. If everyone took note of the amount of commodities wasted every day, especially in terms of food items, they could then make the necessary change. Cutting down waste will help reduce demand and bring down prices as well.
From Dr Saji Sreedharan Pillai
Dubai
Powerhouse
The landmark nuclear deal between the US and India will help enlist the developing nation as a new economic powerhouse in the world order ("Rice visits India to commemorate landmark N-accord", Gulf News, October 3). Additionally, it has opened up new business opportunities for multi-national companies in the West that require support. Simultaneously, India will benefit from nuclear power to increase efficiency in the economy, especially in its rural areas.
From Mr Viren Gujrathi
Sharjah
Spell it out
The US Congress's official endorsement of the US-India nuclear deal has indeed helped lift a long ban on nuclear trade between the two countries. However, the Indian government must clarify all questions surrounding the deal. Additionally, they should take the initiative to convince the public about the benefits that the country will enjoy in the future. Since there has been a great deal of pressure from opposition parties in India, it is the government's responsibility to spell out everything about the deal.
From Mr Ramachandran Nair
Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman
Major nuisance
Racing does not merely cause a nuisance; it is also a threat to the lives of other motorists and passengers on the road ("Racing causes nuisance", Gulf News, October 2).
Additionally, such erratic driving behaviour does not just occur in Ras Al Khaimah. I have witnessed races taking place on the Emirates Road, especially on the strip between Ajman and Umm Al Quwain. Such races occur almost every night during the winter months. I urge the authorities to look into the situation.
From Ms Jessica H.
Dubai
Cheated
I felt cheated when I purchased a gallon of hand wash from a popular supermarket recently. The price was raised again within a month and the liquid soap was not thick as it used to be. Surely, it was diluted with the addition of water. Since the value of most currencies have fallen by more than 10 per cent with the strengthening of the dollar, why are sellers not reducing prices of all commodities? It appears that most are pocketing the difference.
From Mr Ashok Sharma
Sharjah
Long delays
On one hand, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is spending millions of dirhams to develop infrastructure and to minimise traffic congestion. On the other, the construction work and its resultant diversions are not helping ease the traffic situation. Recently, I found that the traffic signal near Al Mulla Plaza operates a green light for just about 15 seconds before it switches back to red. This is a huge inconvenience for waiting motorists.
From Mr Yunas Pathan
Dubai
