NEWCASTLE – The municipality admitted five of its six refuse trucks were not operational, leaving only one truck to service all the suburbs of Newcastle.
Community Services Waste Managements, Dr Thava Kelly, said it was unclear when the vehicles would be repaired.
“It all depends on the nature of the breakdown and the availability of the parts.”
Despite vehicle maintenance and replacement plans, Dr Kelly said the breakdowns were unforeseen.
“It is like asking when your car will break down. There are plans in place. It was also not all at the same time; we have had breakdowns since November last year and consequently in the present circumstance.”
Residents have taken to social media, wondering if they would be reimbursed for the lack of service delivery.
“Why? All ratepayers will be provided with a service by the weekend,” Dr Kelly concluded.
While Newcastillians face the the looming threat of refuse piling up outside their homes and businesses, the municipality has claimed it was doing its best to eradicate the backlog.
Currently bags from residents are being prioritised. All business backlogs will be eradicated by the weekend.
Residents fear that stray dogs might open piled-up refuse bags, causing unsightly and insalubrious littering.
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