This is with reference to the report “37 arrested for drifting” (June 28). I believe that the relevant authorities should take strong action against such irresponsible people who not only risk their own lives but also put others’ lives in harm’s way.
Whenever I watch any video on YouTube showing young Saudis performing stunts on the roads, one thought always crosses my mind i.e. if given a proper direction and provided with opportunities these daredevils could do wonders in life for themselves, their families and their country.
Of course, performing these stunts is more than mere adrenaline rush; it’s all about talent and the ability to accomplish something. We cannot just shrug off these stunts as acts of foolish young men without any purpose in life. These are highly talented people testing their limits whenever and wherever possible.
By praising these boys, I don’t intend to justify their unruly behavior. We need to look at a problem or an issue from various angles. We should never ignore the whys, whats and hows of a social issue. Without probing thoroughly, finding solution to any problem is not at all possible. There are many steps that could be taken to provide these youngsters with opportunities to utilize their time and talents in an effective manner.
First of all, the practice of underage driving should be completely banned. Driver’s license of an underage driver’s father should be canceled without any warning and heavy fines should be imposed on him. If the boy is in his early teens, he should be made to serve in some charitable organization or some government department for a few weeks.
There is a great need to establish parks equipped with various exercising equipment. Public libraries should be established in every neighborhood with books in various languages. Football tournaments should be organized at neighborhood level. These may appear small steps but if taken will have a far-reaching impact on Saudi society. — Lala, Jeddah
The drifting youth
