Fundamental changes
I fell in love with Dubai the first time I arrived, almost four years ago. It has fantastic energy. There is a willingness to take on every challenge and master it.
Dubai is willing to try. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) needs to be praised for its efforts and intentions.
But good intentions cannot make up for fundamental flaws.
The RTA needs to make a fundamental change in its approach to road planning - they need to recognise that the current system is outdated, was meant for a different traffic situation and that it does not work.
Everything that is currently part of the road planning system needs to be questioned and all the rules and systems that do not work need to be eliminated or altered.
From Mr Markus Stebich
Dubai
Where will they go?
I have recently shifted to Abu Dhabi and took an instant liking to the place for its traffic discipline and the safe haven and respect that women enjoy.
However, one area that the Capital lacks is a neighbourhood park for children. Where can the children play?
Being glued to one's television sets or gaming stations does not encourage the overall and healthy development in children, does it?
From Ms Sujata Sardana
Abu Dhabi
Two years, too different
Two years ago, we enjoyed most weekends by visiting the Old Khalifa Park in Abu Dhabi for its beautiful serenity and the vast playing area.
My children loved playing in the park. We visited the same park, recently, only to find how different everything has become.
Earlier, a caretaker would ensure that no one smoked in the area. Now, we could see people smoking everywhere.
We couldn't understand whether it was a children's park or a smoker's area. I hope the authorities will find a quick solution to maintain one of the most beautiful parks in the UAE.
From A Reader
Abu Dhabi
Name withheld by request
No place to play
The Muwaileh area near National Paints roundabout in Sharjah has undergone tremendous development, with the number of residents increasing drastically.
Unfortunately, children have no place to play. We request the authorities to arrange for parks in the locality.
From Mr Vivek Vigh
Dubai
No complaints
I have been a customer with etisalat, formerly Emirtel, for over 10 years.
So far, my experiences with the etisalat team, be it at their offices in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, or their maintenance staff, have always been extremely professional and good.
While etisalat is nowhere near perfect, particularly when it comes to their international call rates and ADSL speed, their customer service has consistently been exemplary.
Their customer service support staff at different times and on various occasions and they have always been very helpful.
From Mr Hadeel Mohammad
Dubai
Save the environment
The Springs community in Dubai was a paradise with trees and lush greenery that has now been stripped off.
Streets that were once lined with lovely palm trees are now becoming barren roads.
If the green pastures are being destroyed to give way to more roads, I request the officials not to do so for the sake of the community.
Instead, we should plant more trees. Save the environment, save Dubai.
From Mr Sameer Mansour
Dubai
Maintain cleanliness
I recommend that authorities strictly fine people who litter and spit in public. This will generate more revenue and make Dubai a cleaner place.
From Ms Huzaifa Halai
Dubai
Late to school
As a resident of Sharjah studying in Dubai, I have been reaching my school late every single day.
I know that the relevant authorities are looking into the matter, but we students face great inconvenience because of the traffic.
I urge the authorities to construct new roads that permit only school buses to use them.
If radars monitor these lanes in order to prevent other vehicles from using them, it would be great.
From Ms Ameena Bintory
Sharjah
Standing room only
Some parents who complain that their children always have to stand in the school bus should actually be grateful.
My friend's child was recently enrolled in a school. As the bus was full, the school authorities asked parents to make their own transport arrangements.
While his father drops him off in the morning, the child's mother picks him up after school. Waiting for a taxi in the heat is a regular affair.
My friend would be thrilled if his child was allowed to travel by bus - even if he was made to stand throughout the journey.
From A Reader
Abu Dhabi
Name withheld by request
Long-awaited
As a resident of Al Nahda, I was very relieved to see the beginnings of a pedestrian bridge taking shape.
The long-awaited crossing is being constructed after continuous requests to the authorities and frequent letters to Gulf News.
The pedestrian bridge is finally becoming a reality and I would like to thank all concerned parties for their efforts in making it happen.
From Ms Flora Maravilla
Sharjah
Steep rates
I used credit cards for over five years in the West, but ever since I moved to the UAE, I have been disappointed at the limitations on card usage.
No petrol stations in Dubai accept credit cards, while stores that do accept it often charge customers extra.
Recently, I made a retail purchase of a considerable amount and was surprised when the store charged me almost two per cent above the list price on the in-voice for paying through a credit card.
I blame banks for their incredibly steep rates. It is a shame.
From Mr Mazhar Mohad
Dubai
