The Tshwane metro has committed to deploying a special cleaning team in Sinoville, following mounting complaints about the rubble and debris left behind after roadworks.

This comes after Ward 50 councillor Lenise Breytenbach raised public safety concerns, referring to the growing frustration among residents who say incomplete clean-ups are making the suburb both unsightly and unsafe.

The issue stems from ongoing pothole repairs across Sinoville, which have increased due to recent heavy rains.

Breytenbach said the metro leaving rubble behind has caused significant frustration for residents due to safety, health, aesthetic, and clean-up concerns.

“What we did as the community is to implement solutions such as regular clean-up service, improve waste management and foster community involvement in maintaining public spaces.

“Residents are also advised to report the issue to local environmental health and document the evidence by taking pictures of the rubble,” said Breytenbach.

She said by working together, residents and local authorities can address the issue and create a cleaner, safer, and more pleasant living environment.

Tshwane spokesperson Lindela Mashigo confirmed that a clean-up effort is underway.

“A team to clear the rubble and debris left by the wayside of the road will be deployed.

“The current team will be augmented with a special cleaning team to catch up on the backlogs and the required equipment to clean all rubble, since the magnitude of the work to be carried out requires more mechanical equipment, such as a TLB or a Bobcat,” said Mashigo.

He admitted that while the metro’s standard operating procedure requires clean-up to happen immediately after the repair work is completed, a backlog has delayed compliance.

According to Mashigo, the Regional Operations and Coordination Department, along with the Regional Maintenance Teams, is responsible for both road repair and site clearance.

However, he noted that the increased volume of repairs and lack of equipment have slowed progress.

Residents have been urged to report sites that remain uncleared to Customercare@tshwane.gov.za or Potholes@tshwhane.gov.za. They may also use the dedicated app via 087 153 1001 or by calling 012 358 9999.

Mashigo said each report will generate a reference number to help track the issue.

All the metro’s completed work is inspected by a foreman and signed off by the superintendent of trades.

If defects are found, the teams are instructed to return and correct them, and the presence of debris at many repair sites suggests a gap between policy and execution.

Also Read: Tshwane initiates clean-up in CBD to rehabilitate public spaces

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