​Qaqambile Mdledle
Premier David Makhura has called on the communities of Emfuleni Local Municipality to refrain from destroying municipal infrastructure during protest actions.
Whilst acknowledging the right to protest as enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic, Makhura encouraged communities to protest within the confines of the law.
Restoring damaged infrastructure has huge financial and social implications, which negatively impact citizens who use such amenities daily, Makhura said on Wednesday.
"Vandalising of infrastructure does not only disrupt service delivery to communities but it also impacts on the financial well-being of the community and other stakeholders in the public sector, particularly municipalities." 
The premier was speaking during the handed over 30 waste management trucks which included 3 front end loaders, 3tractor back goes (TLBs), 6 hook lift trucks, 9 compactor trucks and 9 tipper trucks.
The new fleet will increase the existing set in the municipality and upscale the waste management processes to ensure effective service delivery of household collection, street sweeping. 
The trucks, he added, will help promote recycling through transfer stations, infrastructure development and rehabilitation of parks.
Communities have welcomed the new equipment saying it will go a long way in improving waste management.
"These trucks are our pride and we will protect them. There is no justification for destroying what is already there because it costs too much to rebuild," said Nelisiwe Matsatsi.
Premier Makhura and his delegation went on to plant trees and encouraged communities to green their environment.