British Army Enlisted to Assist Birmingham Waste Crisis

Birmingham is facing a severe waste crisis, prompting the city council to enlist the British Army for logistical support amid an ongoing strike by bin workers from the Unite union. With over 21,000 tonnes of rubbish accumulating since the strike began on March 11, residents are reporting increased sightings of rats and cockroaches, raising public health concerns. The council declared a major incident and sought help from neighboring authorities, while the union demands better pay and working conditions in response to planned cuts and job eliminations linked to a controversial court ruling on gender pay equity. Despite some private contractors beginning cleanup efforts, the strike shows no signs of resolution, with tensions rising as the Labour government faces political scrutiny. Communities Secretary Angela Rayner has urged the union to accept an improved offer to halt the disruption. Local residents express growing frustration as sanitation issues worsen and the cleanup efforts remain insufficient.