I write in reference to your article Thai diver drowns during cave rescue mission (July 6): it is sad that a Thai navy diver has lost his life in the perilous rescue mission in Thailand. With heavy rains threatening in the area, the rescue mission is now under even greater pressure. The rescuers should seriously look at the option of boring another hole from a point on top of the mountain, so the young children do not have to swim and dive for five hours through some very narrow passages. The arrival of engineers from Elon Musk should also help to devise any new possibilities for the rescue.
Finally, although the Thai navy Seals are doing a commendable job, I wonder if it might be useful to get some advice and assistance from American navy Seals too. We must never give up hope.
Rajendra Aneja, Dubai
It’s time to ban single-use plastic bags, plates and cups
With reference to your article Waitrose Abu Dhabi trial sees 75% reduction in single-use plastic bags (July 4), I hope the UAE will introduce a complete ban on plastic bags as well as plastic plates, cups and cutlery.
Name withheld by request
Mineur’s appointment is a symbol of change in Saudi
In reference to your exclusive Why the first female ambassador in Saudi Arabia thinks the UAE got gender equality right (July 6), after serving four years in the UAE as Belgium's ambassador, Dominique Mineur will be posted to Saudi Arabia. This is a very positive development. The Belgian government has rightly nominated Ms Mineur for the post, in recognition of her experience and the fact that Saudi Arabia is reforming and giving greater rights to its women.
K Ragavan, Denver
We need greater awareness around genetic screening
I refer to the article Genetic disorders don't have to be 'your destiny', experts say ahead of international conference in Dubai (July 2): There needs to be more education out there for lay people to understand the importance of genetic screening. At the moment, it is one of the specialties that have extremely high no-show rates for screening appointments.
Raj Jheeta, Al Ain
Investing in property doesn’t always pay off in reality
I am writing in reference to the article Why property is a good investment if you take out a mortgage (July 3): what if the value of the house goes down to half instead of doubling and the buyer is left with a mortgage? Leverage sadly works in both directions.
Miguel Diago, Abu Dhabi
