Joburg mayor says Pikitup strike can no longer be tolerated

Tau threw down the gauntlet amid the ongoing illegal work stoppage. 

Tau addressed the media, while metro police escorted volunteers and contract workers through the streets of the city to collect waste. 

"Street collection points are fast becoming illegal dump sites while services in some areas have had to be grounded due to intimidation and safety concerns," Tau said.

Tau said that was why Pikitup assets were being vandalised and damaged and the concerns could not be taken lightly.

"The actions of the striking workers that place the health and safety of residents at risk is regretted," he said.

According to municipal workers union SAMWU, about 4,000 workers will face disciplinary hearings from Tuesday. 

Samkele Maseko reports from the streets of Johannesburg...

Edited by Suné du Toit