Dual benefits
The construction of air-conditioned bus shelters is perhaps one of the best projects designed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
Though the crescent-shaped shelters look very attractive they could have been larger in size. More shelters should be set up in areas where the number of bus commuters is high.
Installing automated ticket vending machines would help, too. Commuters can get their tickets for their desired destinations, which would double as an access card to be swiped in to enter a bus shelter.
When one boards the bus, he or she can show the ticket to the driver as proof of purchase. This way, the driver's workload gets reduced and ample time is saved.
From Ms Anita Vikram
Dubai
Raising awareness
Animals continue to be exploited with pitiful surroundings, insufficient space and maintenance.
Sharjah is setting a fine example with its new aquarium, in addition to the wonderfully non-commercial wildlife park devoted to conserving indigenous species and educating the public.
With its natural history, botanical museum and several other departments devoted to science, archaeology and art, Sharjah really is at the forefront of raising awareness of the culture, history and flora and fauna of the region.
From Ms S. Edwards
Dubai
Train the trainers
A person might be a good driver but not necessarily a good tutor ("Interactive knowledge test soon to check UAE driver's abilities", Gulf News, June 15).
The focus should be on training the trainers and not introducing more certificate courses. When I appeared for my second test, a student appeared for his ninth test and was failed again.
He ended up yelling at the examiner asking the reason for being failed. He got no response.
Can we blame the examiner? Let us train the trainers first. No more courses or classes please.
From Mr A. Bose
Dubai
Terrible time
As a Qatari driving licence holder, I was able to apply directly for the road test in the UAE.
However, I failed the driving test and was told it was because I was driving too slowly.
This was not my fault as the vehicles that are provided by the testing centres to learners are usually old and slow.
I then had to go through formal training in a driving institute, which took its own sweet time.
It will be nearly one year since I took my road test and I am having a terrible time just trying to get to my office in Dubai each morning.
From Mr Vikram Gupta
Dubai
End this menace
The real estate sector is making huge profits by increasing rents ("Lack of affordable flats puts strain on expatriate marriages in Dubai", Gulf News, June 14).
I wonder why this rising trend is not being controlled. The management plays devious tricks on tenants when it comes to increasing rents.
They force existing residents to vacate their premises and advertise for new tenants every year in order to make better commissions.
Residents are struggling because of huge rents. There should be an end to this problem.
From A Reader
Dubai
Name withheld by request
Lucky number
The number 13 is usually considered to be lucky for my loved ones and me, because all the members of my family celebrate our birthday on the 13th ("Believers tend to be careful on Friday the 13th", Gulf News, June 14).
Additionally, my room, car and mobile numbers include the number 13, and I also got a job in the GCC on the 13th. We feel it is the best date in the month!
From Mr Biju John
Dubai
Only superstition
Gulf News's report on the unlucky date 'Friday the 13th' made me laugh. I still cannot believe some people believe in such superstitions in this age and time.
Superstitious thoughts are the products of our mind and such things do not exist.
Additionally, different numbers are considered unlucky in different countries, so how can we classify a particular one as inauspicious?
I think we should believe in ourselves to guarantee good times. If we mistrust ourselves even for a second, things are likely to go out of hand.
From Mr Shiny Atly
Dubai
Against all odds
Against all odds and hopes, Pakistan rose to the occasion with a wonderful performance in the recent cricket match against India ("Pakistan beat India by 25 runs to lift Kitply Cup", Gulf News, June 14).
The better team won the tri-nation series and the match will be remembered as one of Pakistan's best victories.
Everyone had written them off, but their batting helped them prove their mettle. Congratulations to the team and I hope Pakistan's winning streak continues.
From Mr Mohammad Rashid
Dubai
Not up to America
As a sovereign country, Iran has the right to develop its nuclear programme based on its own perception of threats ("US President Bush disappointed Iran rejects offer", Gulf News, June 14).
America, France and other countries have nothing to do with their matters.
In fact, the US is the only country to have used its nuclear weapons so how can it preach a message of peace to other countries?
They could not even help resolve the problem with Israel and Palestine. All nations do not need to be answerable to the US.
Every nation has the freedom to live with respect and freedom.
From Mr Ravi S. Chandu
Muscat, Oman
