The waste management entity, Pikit-Up was not able to render its usual services in areas serviced by the Zondi Depot in Soweto.
Department of Environment and Infrastructure MMC Nico de Jager said this takes place after protest demonstration staged outside Pikit Up at Zondi Depot by the residents.
“The protesters are in demand of jobs and threatening the lives of Pikit Up employees and assets. Protesters are preventing Pikit Up employees from discharging their responsibility of offering waste removal services. As a result, areas serviced by Zondi Depot which include Chiawelo, Chiawelo 2, Mapetla, Phiri, Molapo, Dobsonville Extension 8, 9, 10, 14, 20, 26, 27, 29, 31 and Lefhureng are affected”, he said.
Jager added that protesters did not demand employment from Pikit Up only, but presented other things.
“Protesters also presented a list of demands and questions on Pikit Up’s learnership programme, employment of Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers, information about tenders and Pikit Up’s supply chain processes. They also asked about how vacancies are advertised and how they can benefit from recycling services”, said Jager.
He added that despite Pikit Up responding to the questions, protesters continue to disrupt operations at the depot.
“Pikit Up requested assistance from the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), to restore order before normal waste collection services can resume in the area. Pikit Up is apologising for the inconvenience caused and is appealing to the affected residents. Pikit Up disposed of their waste at its garden sites while it is addressing the issue”, said Jager.
