Is the Mumbai dream over?

A reader says the thriving Indian city remains a magnet, even though it lacks the opportunities that were once abundant. Other topics: grocery stores, support for crash victims and Ferris wheels.

A reader says Mumbai is still a magnet for Indians, although it lacks the promise of the past. Scott Eells /Bloomberg

High hopes for city's renovated grocery stores

I am writing regarding Confusion over store closures (February 15), which says the emirate's food authority will not allow Abu Dhabi grocery-store owners any more time to renovate their premises in order to meet the new hygiene and safety rules.

It would be nice to see the refurbished stores open soon. Four of the five groceries near my home have been closed since the start of the year, and the fifth has such a poor selection that I usually have to go to a big supermarket for my purchases.

I would love to see open market- type stalls selling items such as fruit and vegetables rather than go into one of these baqalas. Before they closed, many of the old stores were selling produce that was rotting or mouldy.

I think the change will be good in the long term; I just hope it doesn't push too many small-business operators out in favour of the large chain stores.

A Smyth, Abu Dhabi

Mumbai retains its unique allure

I found it very interesting to read Hari Chand Aneja's opinion article, Next Stop Mumbai, a 'city of dreams' that lost its way (February 15).

Like the UAE is today, Mumbai was a paradise in the 1950s for job hunters of all professions, particularly in the pharmaceutical industries.

Even though the city is losing its charm in certain areas, those who have migrated from southern cities are not willing to leave - because, as they all say, "Mumbai is Mumbai".

K Ragavan, India

The big wheel just keeps on turning

Bluewaters Island project launched (February 14) caught my attention.

In announcing the 210-metre Dubai Eye, the world's largest Ferris wheel costing Dh1bn, Sheikh Mohammed paid tribute to George Ferris, who created the original Ferris wheel for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

I note that Google also honoured Ferris last week with an interactive doodle on its front page to celebrate what would have been his 154th birthday.

Unni Krishnan, Dubai

Valentine's Day a trivial matter

I am writing in reference to Islamic conservatives protest against Valentine's Day (February 14), about calls in Indonesia to ban the celebration.

Valentine's Day is a one-day irrelevance in life.

The vast majority of Indonesians have more mundane matters to worry about - like doing their work, maintaining a home, feeding their families and educating their children.

P Nixon, Abu Dhabi

Not nepotism, a privilege of office

Regarding Morsi nepotism claim rejected (February 14), it is obvious that they would not be paying the son of the president of Egypt $75 (Dh275.50) a month.

To me, $5,000 as a starting salary sounds reasonable, since he is the son of a head of state. I would have been aghast if he had been paid $1 million.

I'm sure American presidents' children have never had to start at rock bottom - a good job is one of the "perks" of their father's position.

Monica Carver, Dubai

Wonderful gift for a sick child

I was pleased to read Operation gives little girl new hope (February 16), about how a generous loan paid for young Jasmine Ammari's limb-saving treatment in the United States.

Medical science is amazing, and what a wonderful gift it has been for this little girl.

Teri Adams, Abu Dhabi

Welcome support for crash victims

News of the bus crash in Al Ain (Tears of a mother, inconsolable in grief, February 11), was heartbreaking for all Bangladeshis living in the UAE, as well as the victims' families in Bangladesh.

Thanks to the UAE government for supporting the victims' families financially.

I also hope that some UAE employers can arrange suitable jobs for the victims' relatives in the UAE so they can continue to support their families.

Mohammed Anisur Rahman, Abu Dhabi