Bad Arabic in adverts is an eyesore
Every time I see a finished advertisement that obviously had millions spent on it, I am saddened. This is because the Arabic part of the advert will invariably have spelling or grammatical mistakes, erroneous translations and sentences that are sometimes written backward. Obviously, those involved in translation and printing have nothing to do with the Arabic language. I am not talking of an odd occurrence. I have noticed this on a daily basis as I drive around the city. The UAE is an Arab country, with Arab culture and heritage. Irrespective of its population make-up or cosmopolitan status, there should be effort made to ensure the sanctity of the Arabic language.
From Mr Daoud J. Khalaf
Sharjah
The good and the bad
My family and I visited a friend in Al Hamriya, in Deira, recently. It was around 12.10am by the time we decided to leave. On approaching our car, we discovered that someone had deflated all the tyres and had also pulled out the pressure blocking pins. I decided to call Dubai police for help. They came immediately and asked if we suspected anyone. They also arranged for a recovery vehicle and assisted me in fixing the car. I believe the vandal had ego issues and did not want anyone else to park in his or her space. The incident made me realise that while there are certain individuals who choose to make trouble, there are others who are considerate and helpful.
From Mr Mirza Talat
Dubai
Opt for simplicity
Complaining about taxis is a routine event. In terms of size, Abu Dhabi is not as large as the other emirates. People could opt for simple, environment-friendly facilities such as bicycles. I'm sure that by using these, one can cross streets within 30 minutes.
From Mr Ebrahim Al Mulla
Abu Dhabi
Better before
I fail to understand why the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) continues to create bottlenecks ("New bridge on Al Khail Road 'another death trap'", Gulf News, April 14). There is no improvement in the condition of traffic with the launch. In fact, some overloaded trucks find it difficult to board the bridge. The previous road network was better as it allowed for free flowing traffic. Instead, the RTA should have extended the exit to Al Quoz by adding two more lanes. I think the new bridge is just a waste.
From Ms Uma Navalkar
Sharjah
Lack of vision
India is on the threshold of starvation due to a lack of vision in the developmental policy ("Asia takes drastic steps in hopes price shock is only temporary", Gulf News, April 15). Instead of focusing on basic needs, almost all nations opt to invest interest in specific elements of society. Indians worry about who our next beauty queen is or who bought which cricket team. Seldom, does one hear people talk about the plight of farmers or decreasing farmlands. We fail to realise that the food we consume is sourced from them.
From Mr Mohammad Shamsheer
Dubai
Don't mix sports with politics
Principally, sports should not be mixed with politics ("Pakistan change relay route", Gulf News, April 15). However, the current spate of protests does show the anger of people across the world. This anger must be taken into account. It cannot be swept under the carpet. Today, the games are being boycotted. Tomorrow, products could be boycotted. This could invariably cripple an economy!
From Mr Raju Aneja
Dubai
No big deal
Honestly, I don't consider it to be a big issue ("Police campaign highlights dangers of leaving vehicles on", Gulf News, April 14). If someone is not responsible enough, leaves their car running and it gets stolen, they deserved it. It would have been better to introduce a law that would make it illegal to talk while driving. If you don't have a hands-free don't use the phone, especially while driving. This law is already in place in the UK and South Africa, resulting in a substantial decrease in accidents.
From Ms Juanita
Dubai
Full name withheld by request
To switch off or not to
Keeping a car switched on is most dangerous when filling up on fuel. Why not instruct the gas stations not to fill up unless the engine is switched off? However, if I need to run some quick errands and if the weather is very hot, should my family seated in the car get tortured in the sweltering heat?
From Mr Hemant M. Choti
UAE
Worth the effort
It is only a few people who do not take the initiative to turn off their car and often leave it unattended. Of course, the new on-the-spot fine of Dh300 will definitely put an immediate end to this type of carelessness. This is worth appreciating, as it will help discipline motorists. It is equally dangerous for parents to leave children alone in cars. I hope such parents realise how dangerous this can be. Congratulations to Gulf News for reporting the matter and to the Dubai police for arranging a campaign.
From Ms Kalaimani K.
Dubai
