Temple touch-up toll on design novelty

The Shyamsundar temple at Rashkhola is not cleaned properly. The terrace and the stairs leading to it are soiled with pigeon droppings. The alleys around the temple, too, are quite filthy. Overzealous repair work has done more harm than good to the temple. The Krishnalila panels put up on the walls are quite hideous. After repairs and a fresh coat of paint the basic structure of the Rashmancha near the river has changed significantly. I wish those who undertook the job had taken a little more care to preserve its original design.

Lina Biswas, Rashbehari Avenue.

Progressive groups in sham draws

A number of clubs in Nangi, Batanagar and Maheshtala areas organise lottery draws during winter months targeting daily-wage earners. For some strange reasons, 'progressive' youth organisations, which are otherwise very vocal against online lotteries, keep mum or even actively participate in these draws. The club members hawk the tickets at busy traffic intersections, creating inconvenience to passers-by. It is high time that the local police stations put a stop to such dubious money-spinning activities.

Bappa Kanta Pal, Address not given.

Lessons on saving fuel

The private transporters are increasing fares pleading losses arising out of rise in fuel prices. But on the other hand, Calcutta State Transport Corporation (CSTC) buses often keep the engine running even when caught in traffic snarls or at a signal. The driver is relieved of the bother of restarting the engine but this results in a waste of precious fuel and loss of public money. CSTC should train its drivers on fuel efficiency.

Jamala M. Zakaria, Beniapukur Road.

Cop cap on nuisance

Ruffians often gather in front of girls' schools when they give over and create much nuisance. They tease the girls and also pass indecent remarks. While the educational institutions are trying their best to provide security on their premises, the police should also deploy plainclothesmen to nab these unruly youths.

B.N. Bose, Dum Dum.

Under rally burden

About five decades ago, a Prime Minister of India drew flak for referring to Calcutta as a city of processions. Still, the phenomenon of processions has been continuing to this day, with many children being made to take part in them. Given that children have little knowledge of politics and as such rallies and sit-ins are very exhausting, the government should ban participation of children in any political procession, rally or sit-in.

Prahlad Agarwala, Nadia.