Waste collection services have been disrupted in several parts of Johannesburg after protesting casual workers blocked access to six Pikitup depots.
The affected depots are Marlboro, Waterval, Roodepoort, Randburg, Orange Farm and Avalon.
The workers are contracted through waste collection service providers and are demanding to be employed directly by Pikitup.
The blockades have prevented waste collection vehicles and permanent employees from leaving the depots to carry out scheduled collections.
Anthony Selepe, listed as Pikitup’s media contact, said the entity’s permanent employees were not taking part in the protest.
“Our employees are not on strike and remain available to provide waste collection services,” Selepe said.
However, he said the blockades had significantly affected Pikitup’s ability to collect waste in affected communities.
Pikitup is engaging with service providers, other stakeholders and law enforcement agencies to reopen the depots and restore normal operations.
The entity said it was also implementing operational measures to limit disruptions and assist with the recovery of waste collection services.
“Pikitup sincerely apologises to affected residents for the inconvenience caused,” Selepe said.
Residents have been asked to remain patient and to monitor Pikitup’s official social media platforms for updates about collections in their areas.
