Security personnel to be increased at the metro’s refuse sites
“We are following dedicated plans to address the areas with some of the longest backlogs. These include night-time cleaning in some areas.”
Tshwane Metro is contemplating conducting risk assessments for its dumpsites and later devising an emergency-responsive and -preventative plan, according to metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo.
Mashigo said this on Monday when asked what measures the metro would put in place to avoid the sporadic fires that have been taking place at most of its refuse sites.
“The cause of the fire is unknown and is subject to police investigation. Section 30 of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), Act 107 of 1998 requires that arson-related matters get reported to SAPS.”
He said that at this point, all the metro’s garden waste sites were operational and could be accessed for waste disposal.
“The refuse sites are open from 07:00 until 17:45, except on Sundays and public holidays, where they are open from 08:00 until 14:00.”
Last week, the municipality announced it would reinforce security at all its refuse sites and continue its catch-up plans.
Mashigo acknowledged there were areas where the metro was struggling to collect waste.
He said the municipality was formulating a proper plan.
“In the city, the areas which have not had their waste collected as per the normal schedule were being mapped to ensure we address them.
“Unfortunately, disruptions caused by the illegal strike continue to hamper these operations,” Mashigo said.
“We know many residents around the city are frustrated with the delays and the impact of the strike.
“Despite challenges the municipality faces, such as intimidation of employees and threats to personnel and assets of both the city and contractors, the metro would continue to collect waste.
“We are following dedicated plans to address the areas with some of the longest backlogs. These include night-time cleaning in some areas.
“Security escorts support collections during the day and [provide] additional support to address areas with high levels of backlogs.”
Extraordinary collection of David Goldblatt photography at Aspire Art
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
