KOUGA – The Kouga Local Municipality has converted an old refuse compactor into a 12-ton flat deck roll-back recovery truck, saving significantly on costs compared to purchasing a new vehicle and adding a versatile asset to its fleet.
The refuse compactor had reached the end of its operational lifespan after the compaction unit became irreparable due to normal wear and tear. Rather than disposing of the vehicle, the municipality undertook an extensive conversion process that took approximately four months.
The project resulted in a fully functional recovery truck that will strengthen the municipality’s ability to transport equipment and provide operational support across the region. The conversion cost R423 000, compared to an estimated R1.75 million for a new cab chassis and roll-back unit combined, representing a saving of more than R1.3 million.
Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman said the approach was in line with the municipality’s efforts to make the best use of existing resources. “Responsible financial management means looking for opportunities to extend the lifespan of our existing assets and find practical solutions that benefit our communities. By converting an old refuse truck into a specialised recovery vehicle, we have saved significantly on costs while adding an important resource to our fleet.”
The conversion included repairs to the driver’s cab, servicing and overhaul of the suspension system, upgrading of the braking system, manufacturing and installation of the 12-ton roll-back unit, and the installation of emergency warning lights.
Much of the work was completed in-house, with Bornman noting that this contributed further to the overall cost savings. “The conversion required detailed planning and a significant amount of technical work. Completing much of the process internally allowed us to maximise our resources and deliver a vehicle that meets the operational needs of the municipality,” he said.
The vehicle will primarily be used to transport municipal yellow plant, including rollers, between towns within the Kouga area, and will also assist with vehicle recovery, transporting containers and moving equipment between locations.
Bornman said the size of the Kouga municipal area made it essential to have the right equipment available when and where it was needed. “Our towns are spread across a large geographical area, and having the right equipment available when and where it is needed is essential. This vehicle will assist our teams in delivering services more effectively and responding to operational requirements throughout Kouga,” he said.
The municipality also recently acquired a new chipper unit for the Waste Section at a cost of R1.5 million and a new seven-seater vehicle for the Finance Section at a cost of R630 000. The acquisitions form part of ongoing efforts to maintain and grow its operational capabilities across the region.
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