Rain comes every year, time to limit its impact

A reader congratulates Elham al Qasimi on her decision to journey to the North Pole.

In reference to the shop owners who complained of losses incurred as a result of the rain, After the deluge, the clean-up (March 1), my question is: do these companies not have insurance? If not, how is that possible? Also, having lived in Sharjah, I can vouch that the electrical systems in many homes are an absolute hazard. Bare wires running across the place, and many people plug all of their appliances into one socket. The risk of electrocution in the annual floods must be huge. Why are electricians not monitored and required to undergo international standards of training? Phoebe Eden, UK

Every winter, it is the same story. How difficult is it to get some of the labourers who are being sent home to dig trenches instead, put pipes in and build a drainage system? A few drainage vehicles isn't the answer, a drainage network is. Ford Desmoineaux, Abu Dhabi

This may not be enough to attract investment into the property sector, Funds for ADF to cut mortgages (February 28). The laws and regulations have to be simultaneously spruced up. I do not think any sensible expatriate investor would dare to invest after a couple of incidents of illogical and unfair punishments meted out to investors by creditors. Here being a troubled investor is like being in a trap. The attitudes of developers, government and the courts should take into account the market situation. The law against bouncing cheques should be repealed. Otherwise I do not think investors will see any sea change in the way business is done here. Dr K B Vijayakumar PhD, Dubai

The article The region must reach for its tolerant past (February 27) hits the nail on the head. Muslims today are more focused on following the literal meanings with ritualistic practices. Why do we believe that Allah thinks like us humans? Allah is mighty and all-knowing, but benevolent, tolerant and merciful, not vindictive and full of anger like some so-called champions of Islam. These so-called experts and champions want to brand outdated tribal practices and culture with an Islamic label and impose these on all Muslims. Iqbal Maladwala, Dubai

With regard to the online forum question, Do you agree that the Arab world is at risk of a brain drain? Of course it is, just ask all the brilliant Arabs in London, New York and Washington. Fortunately, the Gulf is becoming a centre of gravity in its own right and is drawing those talented young men and women back. Matthew Reynolds, US

I have attempted the driving test in Dubai twice. I still don't understand why I'm being failed under the five so-called "immediate fail" points, New Dubai driving test gives feedback on mistakes (March 2). They mark off: "Causing instructor to intervene, too dangerous to continue test -" They do this despite the fact that he hasn't intervened and hasn't told me what I'm doing wrong. All this is happening on almost empty roads where I can't possibly cause a collision, am travelling within the lines and at the speed limit. Sid T, Dubai

With regard to the article, Emirati will be the first Arab woman to reach North Pole (March 2), I would like to say that Elham al Qasimi is an inspiration to all women. It is so refreshing to find that she has such a supportive family too. I wish her all the very best! Helen Hangari, Dubai

Surely enough is enough, Six die in accidents on Dubai bypass road (March 1). A lorry driver can't negotiate a curve in the road under normal driving conditions and five die due to reckless driving. How often do we all witness the absence of even the barest essentials for driving competency in drivers on the UAE's roads? It is farcical. For sure, there have been some important initiatives introduced over the past few years that demonstrate some commitment to improving driver ability and road safety. But until there is consistent and highly visible application of the road laws on our highways, I'm afraid there will be many many more pointless deaths as a result of poor driving ability. Greg Moore, Dubai