Taxi ranks would beat queue-jumping

A reader calls for more dedicated cab ranks in Abu Dhabi. Other topics: Pakistan, child-rearing and road safety.

A reader wants to see more taxi ranks and orderly queuing in Abu Dhabi. Jaime Puebla / The National

Taxi ranks would help prevent queue-jumping

The summer is here already, and the heat is creating problems for those Abu Dhabi residents who have to wait for buses and taxis.

There are no sunshades available at many stops, and no discipline among those trying to board buses or taxis.

A lot of people jump the queue for taxis, while slower or more patient people have to wait forever.

I'd like to see dedicated taxi ranks in Abu Dhabi, with clear signage indicating where cabs should stop and where people should form queues.

Eventually I'd like to see state-of-the-art bus and taxi stops all across the city. And, if such a system comes, I hope all commuters abide by the rules.

Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi

Balance needed in child-rearing

Reading Seminars give families a hand in being healthy (April 14), I was reminded of the old advice to "give your children hardship in small doses".

The Arabic word "tarbiyah" describes the notion of bringing up children. It is a balanced approach where discipline and encouragement go hand in hand.

If parents do not take heed, they should not complain when their children follow the wrong path.

Joe Burns, Dubai

Musharraf acts in good faith

The opinion article Musharraf has little chance of making a political comeback (April 11) seems to be an attempt to undermine the sincere efforts of a patriotic leader with a proven track record.

Mr Musharraf announced his political party and his intention to contest the polls three years before Tahir ul Qadri's arrival in Pakistan.

It is ridiculous to suggest a nexus with the establishment just because Mr Musharraf honestly and forthrightly endorsed the transparent agenda of Mr Qadri.

In fact, Mr Qadri has educated the masses on the relevant clauses of the constitution and exposed the defective formation and politicisation of the election commission ahead of the polls.

All cases against Mr Musharraf are politically motivated and despite that he has had the courage to return and face these false charges and accusations, which seem to be presented as fact even before any court judgment.

No other political players except Mr Musharraf, Imran Khan and politicians with the Muttahaida Quami Movement support the honest agenda of Mr Qadri.

Mr Musharraf commands respect both domestically and internationally, and no attempt to sabotage him will succeed.

Mohammad Hamza, Dubai

Bieber's concerts must end on time

I refer to Joy for UAE Justin Bieber fans without tickets - second date added in Dubai (April 15).

I hope he goes on stage at a reasonable time, as most of the fans will be under 18 and will need to get to school the next day.

For those driving to one of the concerts from Abu Dhabi, it's going to be a long night.

Jo Harvey, Abu Dhabi

Souq is welcome, but not authentic

I am writing in reference to 'World-class' souq to enhance cultural heritage (April 16).

Building a brand new souq is one thing - and bravo to those who are doing it. But labelling it as cultural heritage is misleading.

A new souq can never be authentic. If you want authentic, just drive to the Sharjah heritage district or hop on a plane to Doha and visit Souq Waqif.

Mohamed Kanoo, Abu Dhabi

Take speeders' cars from them

On many occasions, The National has reported about to proposals to remove the speed-limit buffer on UAE roads.

Don't take away the buffer, take away the car of the driver who speeds.

If you will not or cannot control your speed, then the use of your car has to controlled. No car, no speeding, no problem.

Simplistic as it sounds, nothing hits the ego of young people more than losing the use of their cars. Having to rely on a taxi, or begging rides from family and friends, will hit even the most hardened offender where it hurts most.

Peter Nixon, Abu Dhabi