Consumers plea with Checkers to suspend sixty60 services amid Cape storm

by Staff Bona

Consumers have urged Checkers to suspend their Sixty60 services in the Western Cape in light of a severe Cape Town weather warning.

Heavy rainfall and flooding have hit the city, forcing many residents to stay at home and reduce their travel. In many areas, schools have also been closed.

This comes as the South African Weather Service issues a Level 8 weather alert.

Many Cape Town residents urged Checkers to suspend their Sixty60 delivery service after several motorbikes were seen driving in heavy rain and flooded areas.

Others were concerned that Sixty60 drivers, who are independent contractors who own motorcycles and buy their own uniforms, would lose money due to the weather.

Drivers are expected to deliver their orders within 60 minutes, failing which may result in alleged deductions.

While Checkers warned Cape Town residents that the weather would cause delivery delays, it did confirm that Sixty60 drivers would continue to work.

In an official response to a concerned customer, the retailer tweeted: “We prioritise our drivers’ health and safety and are taking the necessary precautions in each delivery area. Operations are monitored closely to safeguard our drivers and to manage customer expectations.”

According to the South African Weather Service, Cape Town residents are in for a wet weekend, with heavy rain expected until Monday.

In a statement, JP Smith, a member of the mayoral committee for safety and security, revealed that a Level 8 warning remained in effect.

He said: “Indications are that worse is still to come before there is any respite. The City has all hands on deck, but the weather conditions will likely result in widespread flooding and impact on response times. “Where possible, please stay off the roads and remain indoors,” said JP.

Compiled by Murray Swart

First published by Cape Town etc

Also see: Tourism disrupted by SA’s bad weather