Johannesburg’s waste management utility Pikitup faces mounting scrutiny as refuse collection collapses. Hundreds of trucks are out of service and bins overflow across the city. The entity holds R2.15 billion in cash yet owes suppliers R1.33 billion.
Pikitup reported that only 82 of its 223 specialised refuse collection vehicles remain operational. Another 81 vehicles await repairs while 59 have been scrapped. The utility said it needs about 67 new trucks each year to maintain its fleet.
Residents have faced months of missed collections. Ward 98 councillor Beverley Jacobs launched a petition for an independent investigation after gathering more than 1,000 signatures in one day. She stated that recovery plans have not been implemented as promised.
This week casual workers protested for permanent jobs, further disrupting services. Pikitup also spends R70 million annually clearing 2,176 illegal dumping sites. Several senior management positions remain vacant.
