SASOLBURG. – Community organisation Proudly Vaalpark NPC has raised concerns over ongoing refuse removal delays in the Metsimaholo Local Municipality, claiming that some residential and business areas have gone without waste collection for approximately three weeks.

In a media statement issued on Thursday evening, the organisation said uncollected refuse has resulted in growing piles of rubbish in several neighbourhoods, creating unpleasant conditions for residents and businesses.

According to Proudly Vaalpark NPC, the situation may be linked to challenges involving service providers responsible for waste collection. The organisation alleged that contractors hired to perform refuse removal services have not been paid, although this has not been independently verified.

The organisation further expressed concern about what it described as a broader deterioration in municipal service delivery. Issues highlighted in the statement include the condition of roads, non-functioning streetlights, overgrown public spaces and a lack of maintenance in parks and green belts.

Proudly Vaalpark NPC argued that residents and ratepayers are increasingly frustrated by what they perceive as declining services despite continued increases in municipal costs. The organisation called for greater accountability and clearer communication from municipal leadership regarding service delivery challenges.

The statement also criticised the governing coalition in Metsimaholo and linked the service delivery concerns to the upcoming local government elections scheduled for November. Proudly Vaalpark NPC urged residents to use their vote to bring about change in the municipality.

Metsimaholo Local Municipality had not responded to the allegations at the time of publication.

Residents affected by refuse collection delays are encouraged to report service delivery issues through the municipality’s official channels.