I live in Al Muhaisnah area and every morning, I see some residents smoking outside our building right near the gas filling points, despite the presence of ‘No Smoking' notices. They never think about the damage they cause to themselves and others, by smoking.
[This practice] is hazardous to both the environment and humans. Needless to say, it is harmful to the person who smokes, as it is a known killer. But the worst part is that this selfish act puts passive smokers' health in danger, too, and this damage is often greater.
As the laws in Dubai do not permit smoking in public areas, authorities must take immediate action against smokers. I would say they should be heavily fined and even jailed if the offence is repeated.I believe that residential authorities can intervene to stop this ruthless act which is harmful to the environment and its people. Laws, rules, and regulations can be implemented, but it is also necessary to monitor people to see if they are abiding by them. It is sad to note that very few people are concerned about taking care of the environment, respecting and valuing others' lives. Does this mean that we are heading for a society which does not care about others and considers only its own comfort, at the cost of others? Now it is time to think, and if not, it will be too late. We must have the guts to say no to smoking.
— The reader is based in Dubai.
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