Close dangerous U-turns

I wish to add to a recent community report concerning the dangers along Al Mankhool Road, in Dubai ("Municipality action makes walking a joy", Gulf News, December 6). It is not only the large bushes that are a matter of concern. I strongly urge the authorities to close up the two U-turns which are located in front of the hotels on this stretch of road.

Many horrific accidents have happened along this particular road because many motorists have to use the U-turn and end up facing speeding vehicles, including public buses.

It is infuriating to note that motorists lining up to make the turns are always honking and putting pressure on the car in front of them to move, when they know that oncoming cars are travelling at a high speed.

In the five years that I have resided in this area, I have seen many major and minor accidents — almost every week — along this stretch.

Before any more serious accidents occur, it would be wise for the Dubai Police or Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to close up the U-turns and only allow it at the traffic junction just a short distance further up the road in both directions.

I am sure the authorities have monitored this section closely, but I believe the situation has become serious and something must be done about it urgently.

Before accident statistics start to add up even more, I strongly urge the authorities to seal off the U-turns and prevent this menace.

The reader is a project director, based in Dubai.
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