Residents of Philippi East have been informed of the temporary suspension of waste collection services, the second time such services have been withdrawn by the City of Cape Town‘s Urban Waste Management (UWM) Directorate in the area this year.
Security Incident Leads to Suspension
The decision to suspend services follows an attack on private security escorts protecting UWM staff and vehicles in the area. As a result of the attack, two security guards lost their lives. The refuse collection crew had previously been threatened by extortionists, leading contractors to withdraw from service delivery in the area. The City had deployed its internal staff from other areas to collect waste under protection.
Measures to Address Security Concerns
The UWM Directorate is working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the City’s Safety and Security Directorate to combat criminal elements threatening staff and contractors. Alderman Grant Twigg, Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, expressed condolences to the families of the security guards and underlined the City’s commitment to resuming services safely and finding ways to continue service delivery in Philippi East.
Call for Resident Cooperation
Residents are urged not to dump uncollected waste and to monitor media outlets for updates on the clearance of waste backlogs and possible adjustments to waste collection schedules. The City is also launching its #SpringCleanCT campaign and has provided information on the location of drop-off sites and the materials they accept.
Although the temporary suspension of waste collection services in Philippi East highlights the challenges of service delivery in the area, the City is taking steps to address security concerns and working with residents to ensure clean communities at all times. Through collaboration between the City, SAPS, and the community, a safer and cleaner Philippi East is anticipated.
