RIYADH, 16 March 2004 — They are flirting danger when they walk between cars selling water. They keep one eye on possible customers and the other on the traffic signal. When it changes, they must quickly get out of the way of traffic or risk being run over. It is a very dangerous way for young children to make a living.
The problem has been discussed many times in local newspapers but with no action being taken by authorities. Al-Nadwah Arabic newspaper interviewed a number of citizens for their views.
“I am upset when I see children selling water at traffic lights. The municipality and police should look into this situation and find out who is responsible. At peak traffic times, we see many children working at traffic lights,” Abdul Rahman Al-Habib said.
“To begin with, the children should be in school or at home away from danger. The people who put these poor children on the street do not care about safety; they care only for themselves and their profits. People driving cars are concentrating on traffic lights and do not notice the poor children walking between cars. It is only a matter of time before there is a terrible accident.”
Abdullah Al-Munaie said, “We are not against honest work. Everyone wants to work and earn a living. The problem is in the way and the method the work is carried out. I wonder why police do not follow these children and see who is behind them. There is surely no way a child would put himself in such danger for a few riyals. I am sure there is a gang behind them forcing them to do this dangerous work.”
Saleh Al-Jelani said, “Where is the municipality? That is the first question I ask when I see a child who is the same age as my son or daughter selling things on the street. The sight of these children working in our streets is a disgrace to our society.”