Stench temporarily closes library
A strong odour from the Boksburg Lake forced the library to shut its doors today, October 17, as staff and visitors struggled to cope.
The Boksburg Library was temporarily closed today, October 17.
The closure comes after a strong foul smell from the Boksburg Lake made it unbearable for staff and visitors to remain inside.
The stench, believed to be caused by waste and pollution floating in the lake, has persisted for more than a week.
When the Boksburg Advertiser visited the area, the smell was overwhelming even before reaching the library entrance. The once-tranquil lake has turned into a polluted eyesore. The water appeared dark and murky, littered with plastic bottles, food wrappers and what seemed to be sewage.
Patches of oily residue, foam and even a few dead fish were visible near the water’s edge.
Library staff closed the facility due to unbearable conditions inside.
“It’s been getting worse every day,” said one staff member, who wished to remain anonymous.
“We tried keeping the doors and windows closed, but the smell seeps through. Some of us started feeling light-headed and nauseous.”
For Ulrig Swartz, a homeless man who has lived near the lake for the past three years, the stench has made daily life almost impossible.
“It’s a serious environmental concern and needs urgent attention. At night, it’s even worse. You can’t breathe properly. There’s dirty water and rubbish everywhere. Sometimes, I wake up with headaches and a burning feeling in my throat because of the smell.”
Swartz said the lake, once a peaceful spot where he could sit and relax, has now become unbearable.
“I used to sit by the water in the evenings, just to think, but now it’s impossible. The smell makes you sick. I’ve seen people come here at night to dump rubbish and what looks like sewage. It’s not just bad for me, it’s dangerous for everyone who lives nearby. The animals and birds that used to be here are gone now. Even the ducks don’t come close to the water anymore.”
The Advertiser has contacted the metro for comment and will provide more details once a response is received.
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