Ongoing strike in UK’s Birmingham leaves 17,000 tonnes of garbage piled up – World Pakistan

Birmingham City Council has declared a major incident over the ongoing bin strike, which has left 17,000 tonnes of waste piling up on the streets for almost a month.

The strike, which began on March 11, was initiated by Unite union members over pay disputes, particularly concerning proposed salary cuts and demotions.

Council leader John Cotton said the declaration was necessary due to concerns for public health, as the waste had begun to disrupt daily life and create sanitation issues.

“We cannot tolerate a situation that is causing harm and distress to communities across Birmingham,” Cotton stated. As a result of the declaration, the council has mobilized additional resources, bringing in 35 vehicles and extra crews to assist with the cleanup.

Unite union officials have criticized the council’s approach, with General Secretary Sharon Graham accusing the authority of imposing harsh restructuring plans that could lead to significant pay cuts for refuse workers.

“This is not about a major incident; it’s about imposing austerity and pay cuts on workers at all costs,” she said.

The strike has sparked frustration among residents, particularly in areas like Small Heath, where growing piles of rubbish have attracted rats, creating health hazards.

Local residents expressed anger over the uneven waste collection, with some areas seeing rubbish removed while others remained ignored.

The situation has also attracted political attention, with opposition parties calling for urgent government intervention. Local government minister Jim McMahon expressed willingness to offer support if requested by local leaders.