Able and quick
Recently, my family and I were at a shopping mall in Abu Dhabi, when my son accidentally injured himself. Thankfully, the response of the security staff at the mall was fantastic. They immediately took him to a private room to administer first aid. After helping to stop the bleeding, the security personnel then called for an emergency vehicle to pick my son. The emergency team that arrived did a great job as well, as they took excellent care of him. My family and I are very grateful for the help extended by all the people involved.
From Mr Brian Rotunno
Abu Dhabi
Reduce the cycle
While travelling from Sharjah to Dubai via the National Paints roundabout, commuters always end up in traffic congestion. Nowadays however, police officers are present in the area, and motorists are able to cross the interchange at a considerably good speed. Nevertheless, another problem has cropped up. Traffic from one direction is allowed to cross for up to five minutes in one stretch. Hence, one cycle is completed in approximately 25 minutes and it sometimes takes up to 40 minutes to reach Emirates Road. I think this duration should be reduced.
From Mr Bhupendra D. Joshi
Dubai
No help at all
The main reason the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) introduced Salik is so people would leave their cars at home and use public transport. However, this goal cannot be achieved if public buses are insufficient for commuters. To prove my point, one should just wait for a public bus. They are always either overcrowded with people and never at half-occupancy or late. Additionally, the Dubai Metro is still under construction. Right now, all that Salik has accomplished is to ensure that all routes around the city have become even more congested.
From A Reader
Dubai
Name withheld by request
Clean up the mess
I think the authorities should hire a security company to monitor activity around storm drains ("Illegal sewage dumping raising waste pollution in Dubai", Gulf News, October 5). Those caught dumping sewage illegally could then be suspended for at least 60 days. Additionally, the driver could be jailed until the company that operates the tankers has paid the fine. Moreover, such companies should also be charged with a clean-up fee. If they are instructed to clean up the mess they made, they could help restore the community they have destroyed.
From Ms Sara-Lise Haith
Dubai
Great job
As a resident of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, I ensure that I visit Gulf News's website every day. Additionally, I find the newspaper very informative and useful. It helps keep us posted, especially with all the latest information from the Gulf region. I would like to thank Gulf News and its team for the great job they do for readers.
From Mr Mohammad Sarwar
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Grateful resident
I have heard a lot of complaints against etisalat, recently. However, whenever I have lodged a complaint, regarding the landline or internet connection, their response is accurate and immediate. They have attended to all my complaints within a stipulated period of time and offered the best service possible. I have been living in the UAE for the past 10 years, and have never had any problems with their service. I would like to thank etisalat for contributing towards global and economical growth and commend their excellent and sincere efforts to assist people.
From Ms Mala Murli
Dubai
Creative suggestions
As the Dubai Metro approaches its completion date, the general public will not be entirely dependent on cars for transport. Additionally, an extensive network of covered and elevated walkways and overpasses could be constructed for pedestrians. In the summer, people would be able to get to most places from a Metro station in a more comfortable manner. A similar system is being used internationally, too. Shops and food outlets could be located in overpasses across Shaikh Zayed Road. However, large car parking lots should be provided at major Metro stations, as this would allow the widely scattered population to have easy access. From Mr Chris Young
Dubai
In-flight hazard
On a recent trip, while flying in the economy class of an airline, I noticed how the overhead drop-down monitors tend to release directly over passengers. This could be a potential source of lethal head injury, especially if it coincides with a passenger who is standing up in a bid to move out of his or her seat.
From Mr Subhasis Mukherjee
Dubai
Terrible acts
Gulf News's report regarding the nun in India was shocking ("Four detained and one police officer suspended in nun rape case", Gulf News, October 4). Though I am a Christian, I have never been subject to discrimination. However, this behaviour does occur in some rural areas. When some inconsiderate people conduct such terrible acts, they should be disciplined before they tarnish the country's image.
From A Reader
Kerala, India
Name withheld by request
Be prepared
When Australia lost the 2001 cricket series against India, they were determined to win the next series, and duly achieved their objective ("Three-nation Twenty20 Super Series planned", Gulf News, October 5). In 2004, their inexperienced player, Michael Clarke, won the match for them, and in this vote of confidence lies Australia's strength. Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar was absolutely right when he said that Australian cricket is excellent. However, the same cannot be said for Indian cricketers. Experienced Indian players failed to deliver in Sri Lanka against a debutante bowler, recently. So I urge all Indians not to be complacent.
From Mr Nandakumar
Dubai
Full name withheld by request
