Taxi ranks would make life easier for commuters

Readers write about cab services, extremism, abandoned pets and used clothes

A reader says Abu Dhabi should have more sheltered taxi ranks. Sarah Dea / The National

It has become extremely difficult to find a taxi in Abu Dhabi in the mornings.

Many commuters have to wait for more than 30 minutes to find a taxi. Added to this problem is the absolute lack of discipline because there is no queuing system.

As people wait in the sun, you can hear their frustrations and sometimes see heated arguments.

I hope the authorities can increase the number of taxis on the road during peak hours. It would also be appreciated if they could implement dedicated taxi ranks with shelters throughout the city.

Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi

Extremists are just criminals

In her opinion article, Rashmee Roshan Lall asks Should we deny ISIL the oxygen of publicity? (September 29).

The short answer is: yes.

And the UAE is an example to the world in achieving the right balance between factual reporting of information and denying the perpetrators of criminal terrorism the oxygen of publicity.

The Reem Island stabbing was a classic example. After the initial story of the atrocity and arrest of the perpetrator, speculation and discussion were distinctly muted.

The law took its course and the result was similarly reported in a subdued way, allowing no room for grandstanding by attention seekers.

As was wisely advocated by the UAE recently, the first step in dealing with terrorists is to see and describe them for what they are: criminals. At the same time we must strip away the bogus “religious” credentials that they have given themselves in an attempt to justify their actions.

There are acknowledged religious scholars, notably in the UAE and Egypt, who are well able to take apart the dysfunctional ideology of these outfits whose members often have only a rudimentary understanding of religion.

A bit of public ridicule for their lack of comprehension would not go amiss. Criminal terrorism should be dealt with in the same way as any other criminal activity: arrest and conviction.

Name withheld by request

Animal adopters require funding

I agree with your editorial, We need a UAE version of the RSPCA (September 29).

Government guidance and control would be good, but we also need support and funds to keep up the volunteer work.

Thousands of abandoned pets are being taken care of by volunteers who need financial support from the Government.

Wiltrud Matthes, Dubai

Leader’s vision needs support

I refer to Sheikh Mohammed invites UAE youth to share ideas about future (September 28).

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, has a clear vision, but it does not end with him.

His vision is to let the young generation build on this country’s solid foundations, keep it strong and build higher. The sky is the limit and the world will learn from this.

I’m sure all youth will make their families proud.

Christina Toebast, Dubai

The past – thanks to the great vision of the Father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed – is something the young people of this country must never forget.

They should stay on that track of honour, hard work and show compassion for all.

Brigitte von Bulow, Abu Dhabi

Kayak decision is unreasonable

The situation described in the advice column, Dubai tenant prohibited from storing kayak and fishing equipment in allocated parking space (September 29), is silly.

It is difficult to see any reason why a tenant who has paid his rent for so many years cannot store these things in the garage.

It was not a very nice position for the landlord to take.

Name withheld by request

Surely a car is a greater fire hazard than a kayak.

Simon Buckerfield, Ras Al Khaimah

Seal of approval for used clothes

I was impressed by the story Dubai expats tap into demand for second-hand clothes (September 29).

It’s a great concept. I have a friend who buys great second-hand clothes that were left behind at laundries.

Faizan Jawed, Dubai