Residents in several parts of Johannesburg, including Orange Farm, are experiencing delays in waste collection services after ongoing protest action by casual workers disrupted operations at multiple Pikitup depots.
The protest, led by casual workers contracted to waste collection service providers, has resulted in the entrances to the Marlboro, Waterval, Roodepoort, Randburg, Orange Farm and Avalon depots being blocked. As a result, waste collection vehicles and permanent Pikitup employees have been unable to leave the facilities to carry out scheduled collections.
Pikitup has clarified that its permanent employees are not participating in the protest and remain ready to provide waste collection services. However, the blockade has significantly affected the entity’s ability to deliver services across the affected areas.
Pikitup spokesperson Anthony Selepe said the entity is working with relevant stakeholders to restore normal operations as quickly as possible.
“Pikitup’s employees are not on strike and remain available to provide waste collection services. However, the blockades have significantly affected the entity’s ability to render services. The entity is actively engaging with the relevant stakeholders and law enforcement agencies, including service providers, to restore normal operations. Parallel to that, operational interventions are being implemented to minimise service disruptions and support the recovery of waste collection services,” said Selepe.
He added that Pikitup apologises to residents affected by the disruptions and appealed for patience while efforts continue to resolve the situation.
Residents are encouraged to monitor Pikitup’s official social media platforms for updates on waste collection schedules in their respective areas.
Picture: City of Johannesburg
