Because of that a huge part of eMalahleni still have refuse bags sitting on corners, papers blowing around in the wind and dogs tearing what is left of the refuse bags, as refuse was not collected.
“Normally when backlogs develop we use overtime or weekends to catch up. During last week there were no funds for overtime as it has already been exhausted for November. To just allow additional overtime and not by addressing issues of equipment, staff commitment and efficiency is a self-defeating exercise,” said Mr Theo van Vuuren, city administrator.
There were two main factors contributing to the refuse backlog namely weather and a truck that broke down.
Because of lightning and heavy rain on Monday, November 11 refuse could not be collected in Tasbet Park Extension 12, Thusanang, Thusanang Flats, Ackerville (RDP portion) and a section of Lynnville.
“This is a very rare situation as normally we can attend to areas despite weather conditions. However, heavy rain slowed down operations, lighting is dangerous and all will recall last year when people in a tent were killed. To hold onto a metal truck while it’s raining and there is a thunderstorm, is dangerous. In areas with gravel roads the state of these roads during heavy or prolonged rain makes it also very difficult to drive with the heavy waste removal trucks,” explained Van Vuuren.
On Tuesday residents also waited in vain for the refuse truck to collect refuse.
Van Vuuren said because of Tuesday being Wellness Day no Tuesday areas could be serviced, nor Monday’s backlog addressed, as staff in the waste section decided to take this day off.
“This was a serious oversight from supervisors not to ensure that the service is continued and so arrange that the work is still done. This was unacceptable and cannot be allowed and from my side I have already requested a report by management and I will, where appropriate, act to prevent this from happening in this way again,” Van Vuuren said.
Refuse in a portion of Blanchville was also not picked up because the refuse truck broke down.
As there were so many interruptions, the management team on waste decided that the outstanding areas will be addressed this week on the particular removal day.
