Pikitup to turn illegal dumping sites into vegetable gardens
The project is intended to limit the spaces available for illegal dumping in the West Rand.
Pikitup spokesperson, Muzi Mkhwanazi, said the waste management entity has already met with the regional manager of the West Rand to propose the roll-out of this initiative in Roodepoort and other communities within the region.
The programme forms part of a rejuvenation initiative by Executive Mayor Herman Mashaba, as a means of managing waste and improving conditions for residents in Johannesburg. Earlier this month, the CoJ announced the allocation of R2,4 billion to Pikitup for its daily operational activities and the removal of waste during this financial year. Mkhwanazi said he remains optimistic that this initiative will provide a sustainable solution to illegal dumping. “I believe the programme will be very beneficial to our communities as it will limit the spaces available for illegal dumping. I think it’s important that we also urge community members to take a stand against illegal dumping in their areas. This they can do by disposing of waste properly and creating awareness of illegal dumping among themselves. Dumping rubbish at parks or at open spaces is a criminal offence,” he said.
We spoke to some Roodepoort residents to get their views on the new initiative.
According to Mkhwanazi, it costs the CoJ approximately R170 million per annum to clean up street litter and illegal dumping sites. This, he said, is money that could be used to enhance service delivery within the City. The programme is active in Protea South and Protea Glen Extensions 1 and 2, in Region D.
Areas affected by illegal dumping in Roodepoort include Princess, Florida, Roodepoort CBD and Tornado Crescent. Residents are encouraged to recommend areas where the vegetable gardens can be planted. They can do so by submitting the date, time and location of illegal dumping or communicating their suggestions about open areas where the gardens can be planted to the City of Joburg on 011 375 5555 or by email to info@pikitup.co.za.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
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