Ramadan resolution
Ramadan has arrived and we need to approach it with a new lifestyle ("Ramadan is a month of devotion", Gulf News, September 1). In addition to the prayers and recitation of the Quran during the month, we must audit our behaviour and actions of the previous year. If smokers sincerely decide to stop their habit, they can easily do so during this month of abstinence. Similarly, we must try to gauge the value of what we possess and be thankful, as millions around the world face hunger and thirst every day. This month, I urge everybody to take the decision to live a healthy, peaceful life, and to try his or her best to continue the practice into the future.
From Mr Majeed K.M.
Abu Dhabi
Protect marine life
It is difficult to understand how some people engage in the killing of marine animals, such as sharks. These fish are maintaining the biological balance in a very complex ecosystem. They are at the top of the aquatic food chain and if the top predator is terminated, the whole food chain will break down. Already, thousands of sharks are killed every year, and if the trend continues, our future generations would not even be able to see them. Our lifestyle and the way we humans are looting the oceans is no longer sustainable.
From Mr Josef Baron Borg
UAE
Keep streets clean
I live near a newly built mosque in Satwa, Dubai. Nowadays, I find that the road opposite the mosque is very dirty. Garbage bins are filled with waste and not cleared on a daily basis. As a result, they stink so terribly that we need to hold our breath while crossing the area. Now that Ramadan is here, many people will be forced to sit on the road outside the mosque for prayers, when it is full. Cleaning such areas regularly would be a blessing.
From Ms Meera Vinayan
Dubai
More respect
Can a reputed and respected newspaper like Gulf News please explain to me what it means by "makes no difference", which was placed as an option in a poll question conducted on Ramadan, recently? Please treat religious polls with more respect.
From Mr Salman Asif
Dubai
Community policing
The authorities must take measures to enhance the safety of home delivery personnel, by providing them with fluorescent jackets and helmets. Additionally, there should be more frequent police patrols on roads where motorists tend to speed or drive dangerously, as the effect of police presence always has better results. Moreover, many countries have successfully established community policing and traffic volunteers. For instance, several officials could be given the authority to report or take action, when witnessing traffic violations. Announcements to warn motorists of accidents, delays, and suggested detours through radio channels would also be effective.
From Mr Sajid Rasheed
Dubai
Tough times
The high fee structure in most schools is really alarming. It has become an added burden to parents who are already suffering from other factors such as inflation and rising cost of living. I think private schools need to implement a plan for fee structuring and establish proper guidelines, with a revision in tuition fee. Everything is becoming more expensive, and middle-income expatriates are facing very tough times. Food, housing, medical services and education are the top priority for any individual, but they all have become extraordinarily expensive.
From Mr Ramachandran Nair
Ruwi, Oman
School stress
School textbooks, stationary items and uniforms have been selling for exorbitant prices ("Parents complain about cost of school books in Al Ain", Gulf News, August 31). This is especially true for supplies sold by the school authorities themselves. It adds a great amount of pressure on parents, who are required to pay a fee for extracurricular activities as well. Refusing to pay for such expensive items would mean parents are not following the school's rule. This is unfair and just adds to their stress.
From Ms Reehana Kabeer
India
Award-worthy plan
I am surprised to note that during the last week of August, there has been an incredible difference in the flow of traffic in Sharjah ("Closure of Al Wahda Street triggers chaos", Gulf News, September 1). The detours in place after the closure of Al Wahda Street have been well planned, and it takes hardly 10 minutes to travel within the main roads of Sharjah. Those responsible for planning the diversions truly deserve an award.
From Mr Biju Soman
Sharjah
Listening is the key
Medical liability is one of the drivers of a higher standard of care in places such as the US ("Briton brings $10m suit against hospital", Gulf News, September 1). The term "malpractice" in the legal arena has the formal definition of negligent medical treatment with resulting injury or damage. But, medicine is still an inexact science, malpractice cases do require a thorough review and objective analysis by credible legal and medical experts. The relationship between physicians and patients is built on trust, and trust is built through listening, understanding and being sensitive to a patient's concerns and needs. Malpractice is just that - "poor" practice of care. Listening is the key to any strong relationship.
From Dr Alya Ahmad
Dubai
