Pikitup picks up the waste backlogs after disruption in collections by Waterval depot
Missed refuse collections sparked frustration among residents, but Pikitup says swift intervention and a weekend recovery plan have brought most areas back on track — with only minor delays still being addressed.
The city’s waste management utility, Pikitup, has moved to reassure residents following delays in refuse collection across suburbs, including Berario, Northcliff, Fairland and areas serviced by the Waterval depot.
The disruptions, which left some communities without timely waste removal, were linked to protest action in parts of Roodepoort and Randburg. According to Pikitup spokesperson Muzi Mkhwanazi, the protests were driven by residents demanding employment opportunities at the entity, ultimately affecting operations at key depots.
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Mkhwanazi confirmed on April 8 that while backlogs did occur, they were not widespread across the entire system.
In response, Pikitup implemented a waste recovery plan over the weekend of March 21-22. The plan involved redirecting additional internal resources, including personnel, vehicles and equipment, from depots that were operating normally to those affected by delays.
Addressing concerns about missed collections, the entity indicated that weekend work forms part of its strategy to catch up on any services not completed during the week. However, no mention was made of compensation or billing relief for residents affected by the disruptions.
Despite the challenges posed by protests, labour-related activities and operational pressures, Pikitup maintains that service delivery has not collapsed.
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“Waste collection is ongoing despite the challenges,” Mkhwanazi said, adding that refuse continues to be collected daily.
The intervention, Mkhwanazi said, proved effective in clearing the bulk of the backlog. “Only minor delays remain, and the outstanding collections are expected to be resolved soon.”
On communication, the entity urged residents to stay informed through its official platforms.
These include social media updates, media announcements, the call centre, and local councillors.
Community engagement is also facilitated through Citizen Relationship and Urban Management offices, which liaise with regional stakeholders such as residents’ associations.
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