Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) appeals to residents and motorists for understanding and tolerance as extreme heatwave or heavy rain conditions continue across the city, hampering scheduled maintenance plans.
As the greening entity responsible for managing more than 2 175 open spaces — including parks, nature reserves, cemeteries, the city’s street tree canopy, main arterial verges, areas along water bodies, and the Johannesburg Zoo — JCPZ often receives complaints from passing motorists and residents who may not be aware of the challenging conditions faced by JCPZs outdoor teams. At times, work sites may appear inactive as employees take essential safety breaks.
During extreme heat or heavy rains, these additional safety intervals are necessary protective measures and should not be misunderstood as negligence or a lack of service delivery.
The City Parks teams work extensively outdoors, maintaining open spaces and supporting animal welfare at the Zoo. During heatwaves, additional rest and reduced exposure to peak temperatures are essential to prevent heat exhaustion and other serious health risks.
Animal welfare remains a matter of paramount importance under inclement weather, as well. At the Johannesburg Zoo, fresh drinking water is consistently provided and replenished, the sprinklers and fans are turned on, and the cool night rooms remain accessible.
In public parks, security providers deployed with canine units, have been reminded of their responsibility to ensure the wellbeing of guard dogs, including providing kennels and regularly replenishing with fresh water, particularly during extreme heat.
Despite these challenging conditions, JCPZ continues to intensify service delivery. On Wednesday, 28 January, 130 employees, drawn from the seven regions were deployed as part of a mega-blitz programme, focusing on critical maintenance, in the far south of Johannesburg along key routes and facilities. This included grass cutting and clearing in Eldorado Park, along the K43 and Nirvana Drive in Lenasia, along the R557 in Lawley, as well as in Freedom Park and Orange Farm. In addition, tree pruning was undertaken at the Olifantsvlei Cemetery in Orange Farm. A further high-impact, multi-entity operation was conducted in Randburg.
Managing Director Mr Thanduxolo Mendrew emphasised the need for safety during the peak season, stating:
“We are mindful that this is our peak operational period when grass cutting and park maintenance are critical. However, dangerous weather conditions require us to prioritise the wellbeing of our employees and the animals entrusted in our care. Service delivery must always be carried out safely and humanely.”
Mendrew appealed to residents to assist wildlife during heatwaves by placing shallow water containers in safe areas for pets, birds, bees, and other small animals.
Members of the public with concerns regarding employees are encouraged to message 082 803 0748 to seek clarity and all service delivery concerns should be logged with Joburg Connect on 011 375 5555 (press option 0 for City Parks).
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo thanks residents for their patience, understanding, and the shared responsibility in caring for people, green spaces adjacent to their homes and towards animal welfare.
“A supportive resident component enables JCPZ to systematically and cost-effectively address seasonal backlogs,” added Mendrew.
SUPPLIED.
