With regard to the article "On the road with a broom" (Feb. 28), as much I appreciate the efforts of the author in disguising himself as a street cleaner to learn more about their lives, there is one question that he did not address. Why don't these cleaners actually clean? They beg and harass passersby, but actually do nothing to keep their designated areas clean. They have got so accustomed to begging and getting money that way that they do not perform their duties properly. I do not disagree with any point mentioned in the article, but I would like that question answered. Maryam, Online response They beg for money because the salary they get is not sufficient to feed them and their dependents in their home countries. Even though they are working for their contracted company, they are serving the country by cleaning public places. I think there should be a revision of their salaries to stop them from begging. The government should set a minimum wage and increase the amount of the contract. Ashref, Online response
