Residents across Johannesburg are being urged to remain patient as Pikitup works to clear accumulated household waste following recent collection disruptions linked to a municipal workers’ strike.
The City’s waste management entity confirmed on Thursday, 5 November, that its recovery plan was under way, with additional operational capacity being deployed to remove outstanding refuse while maintaining regular collection schedules.The disruptions followed industrial action by members of the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU), linked to a long-standing dispute over salary adjustments and benefits under the Politically Facilitated Agreement (PFA), which dates back to 2016. The City of Johannesburg and SAMWU signed an addendum to the agreement on 3 November, involving a reported R10.3 billion settlement.
Pikitup spokesperson Anthony Selepe said waste collection services resumed on 30 October, with teams continuing operations over the weekend. However, accumulated rubbish remains in some parts of the city. The entity estimates that clearing the backlog in the worst-affected areas could take approximately one week.
Pikitup identified areas including Roodepoort, Randburg, Marlboro, Waterval and Norwood among those requiring additional attention. For communities in Johannesburg South, including Lenasia South, Ennerdale, Lawley, Vlakfontein and surrounding areas, residents are encouraged to monitor their scheduled collection days and follow updates from Pikitup.
The entity reported that collections serviced by the Avalon depot had stabilised in Orange Farm, Zondi, Selby and Southgate, although it did not provide a separate confirmation covering every street in the wider Johannesburg South area.Pikitup has apologised to affected residents and businesses, acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the delays.
Residents have also been urged to avoid illegal dumping, which can create additional environmental and public health concerns. As recovery operations continue, the focus remains on clearing outstanding refuse and restoring reliable waste collection services across Johannesburg.
Leave a Reply