DIMBAZA- A devastating freak accident claimed the life of a waste collection worker on 30th October 2024, exposing the dark underbelly of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality(BCMM) troubled waste management system.
The incident has sparked outrage and demands for accountability from the Democratic Alliance(DA) in BCMM, which has been vocal about the municipality’s reliance on unsafe and unlicensed vehicles.
DA BCM Caucus Leader Cllr. Sue Bentley said, “This senseless tragedy is a stark reminder of the municipality’s gross negligence, we’ve repeatedly warned about the dangers of using unroadworthy trucks and lack of protective gear for workers.
BCMM’s waste management woes run deep. With many of its own compactor trucks grounded due to sabotage or maintenance issues, the municipality has outsourced services to external providers. However, these providers’ vehicles are often ill-maintained, unlicensed and pose a significant risk to workers and the community.DA in Buffalo City condemned the incident and emphasized that the party has repeatedly raised concerns about the use of unsafe, unroadworthy and unlicensed trucks within the Solid Waste Directorate.”
“We are appalled by this senseless tragedy, which highlights the municipality’s gross negligence. The DA demands a thorough investigation into the accident, with a comprehensive report to be presented at the December council meeting,” Bentley said.
In addition, ownership of the truck remains unclear however the DA has consistently criticized the BCMM for its reliance on external service providers using substandard vehicles, putting workers’ lives at risk.
Furthermore DA has vowed to take action, submitting urgent questions to the Solid Waste Directorate and demanding a comprehensive report on the investigation.
Photograph: supplied
Nontando Mbonwa
31 October 2024
