Residents whose refuse collection falls on Thursday and Friday have been advised to continue putting their bins out daily until Saturday, following ongoing disruptions to waste removal services.

Ward 47 councillor Lida Erasmus said the Tshwane metro is aware of the situation and is working with contractors to resolve the backlog.

“I want to assure residents that this is not being ignored. We have been informed that two refuse trucks broke down, which has severely affected collections in the east.”

Erasmus explained that a catch-up plan is in place and will run until Saturday.

She appealed to residents not to panic if their bins are not lifted on the scheduled day.

“Please continue to put your bins out daily until they are collected. The teams are trying to catch up as quickly as possible,” she said.

According to a message circulated by Tshwane metro contractors, the delays have been ongoing since Monday.

“We humbly apologise. We are currently busy working on a catch-up plan that will run until Saturday due to the serious breakdowns of two trucks on the eastern side,” read the message.

The delays come despite the metro’s previously assuring residents that refuse collection would continue according to the normal schedule throughout the festive season, including on public holidays.

According to information published on the metro’s website, refuse that would normally have been collected on Christmas Day was scheduled for collection on the following day. A staggered arrangement was to ensure minimal disruption and a return to the standard schedule by the end of December.

The metro also reiterated that strict rules apply to municipal employees and contractors, prohibiting them from soliciting money or gifts from residents.

“Any employee or contractor found demanding payment, gifts or intimidating residents faces disciplinary action, which could include termination of services and possible criminal investigation.”

Residents who experience this are encouraged, when safe to do so, to note the details of the individuals involved, record vehicle registration numbers, and capture images if possible, before reporting the incident.

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