MRA join forces with CREASS Community Services

Amid the recent Pikitup strike, the streets and public areas of Melville were heavily impacted, resulting in a decline in cleanliness and an increase in waste accumulation.
The strike, which caused uncollected bins and torn black bags, left various intersections in a messy state, posing challenges for the community in terms of waste management.

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One of the main challenges faced by the community during the strike period was the non-collection of bins. Many households in Melville only have one bin, and without regular collection, waste began to accumulate rapidly. In one unfortunate incident, a bin caught fire and had to be promptly extinguished, highlighting the urgency of effective waste management during the strike.

The strike also had an impact on the ability of the Community, Recreation, and Environmental Services Sector (CREASS) and the Melville Residents Association (MRA) to carry out their regular fix and clean-up projects. Despite the challenges, the dedicated teams at CREASS and the MRA persevered and diligently followed their regular work schedules, ensuring that the community remained a priority.

The strike created a significant rubbish problem for the residents of Melville. At a particular location, a bin was stolen, and its contents were maliciously turfed onto the sidewalk, resulting in unpleasant odours and attracting rodents. In response to the increased demand for clean-up services during the strike, CREASS and the MRA rallied their standby team, which promptly stepped in to assist. This dedicated team was always ready to intervene and manage the situation swiftly, ensuring that the cleanliness of Melville was restored as efficiently as possible.

To address the rubbish problem caused by the strike, an additional clean-up project was initiated. A team meticulously drove through the streets and avenues of Melville, identifying sites in need of cleaning. They worked diligently to bag the waste and placed it in skip containers for proper disposal, ensuring the swift removal of accumulated rubbish.

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While organising the additional clean-up project, the teams encountered some unexpected obstacles. However, they were able to overcome these challenges, demonstrating their commitment to serving the community.

Owner of CREASS, Danny Nunes said the community of Melville responded positively to the clean-up efforts during the strike period, expressing their appreciation for the steps taken to restore cleanliness and order. The residents were impressed by the swift action taken by CREASS and the MRA, highlighting the effectiveness of their partnership in addressing crises such as this.

Fortunately, the strike and subsequent clean-up project did not have any long-term effects or implications on the partnership between the MRA and CREASS.

“I hope it showed the residents that MRA and CREASS are ready to intervene and manage problems quickly as they arise,” said Nunes.

To prevent or better handle similar situations in the future, measures have been put in place. These measures include proactive engagement with waste management authorities to ensure effective communication channels during strikes, establishing contingency plans for increased demand for clean-up services, and working closely with the community to enhance awareness and cooperation in waste management efforts.

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