Decision strikes a chord with residents

Dubai: Gulf News readers were happy to hear about the decision to postpone the phasing out of old cars from the streets of the UAE.

Abdul Rahim Nasser, a Sri Lankan expatriate, owns a 10-year-old car.

"A car should not be sent to the junkyard simply because it is 20 years old," he told Gulf News. "If it functions properly and does not add to the pollution, people should be allowed to use it."

Priyanka Chandanani, an Indian expatriate and lecturer, believes that postponing the initiative will make a big difference to some people.

"I personally think that the phasing out of old cars will reduce traffic congestion," she said. "Additionally, second-hand cars have a big market in the UAE, and it is literally the livelihood for some people."

Nazar Kaderkunji, an Indian expatriate and electronic technician, bought his car eight years ago and hopes he can keep it for many more years to come.

"The authorities are aware of the situation and they would only have decided to postpone the phasing out of old cars after careful analysis," he said.

Unaffordable

Mohammad Attar, an Egyptian expatriate and accountant, agreed.

"It would be unfair to some people if they are not allowed to register their cars, due to its age," he said. "A lot of people cannot afford to buy new cars."