Not a play area

In this community report, I would like to urge the authorities to intervene in something really dangerous taking place in Karama, Dubai.

I am happy that there are a lot of children who like to play outdoor games with their friends after school hours — especially because we hear many complaints that children are spending a lot of time on various kinds of technology [and not enough time outside].

However, we are seeing a lot of children playing on pavements which can be dangerous. This mostly happens during the evening time, as most children like to sweat it out by playing various kinds of sports. But they show lack of consideration to residents staying nearby.

After office hours, one finds many residents who are hunting for a place to park, as the parking situation in Karama is a nightmare. Out of frustration, they tend to drive fast and have to dodge these youngsters who are playing right in the middle of the road. This is not to mention the fact that they even pass the football back and forth to each other while they are all running together in the main street.

Awareness campaign

Additionally, they spoil the walls of new buildings by kicking the ball — it also hits some passers-by. On many occasions, I have seen these youngsters sitting on the bonnets of cars with their dirty feet.

Parents need to keep an eye on their children and ensure that they are safe.

Children need to be outdoors and play after long hours at school, but it should not turn out that pavements are converted into playgrounds, as there are often vehicles parked nearby, which may get damaged.

I feel that this issue has to be taken seriously and I hope the authorities pay heed and put a stop to this.

There should be signboards displayed as part of an awareness campaign so that children are not allowed to play on pavements. We also need more parks located in residential areas so that children are free to enjoy themselves rather than disturb the neighbourhood.

Karama is ‘home sweet home' for many of us — especially those who have been living in the country for many years. The authorities just need to look into a few issues such as this, so that the residents are well-protected.

— The reader is an operations executive, based in Dubai