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Boksburg Lake: Once a Thriving Recreational Hub, Now a Polluted Disaster
Boksburg Lake, once a vibrant gathering place for boating, fishing, and family outings, has now deteriorated into a polluted, neglected mess. Despite tens of millions of rands spent on rehabilitation efforts, the lake remains plagued by sewage leaks, litter, and industrial pollution, posing serious health and environmental risks.
A visit to the lake today paints a grim picture—the stench of sewage, overgrown vegetation, littered walkways, and abandoned facilities. What was once a jewel of Boksburg has become a cautionary tale of mismanagement and decay.
The Rise and Fall of Boksburg Lake
A Legacy of Gold & Coal
Boksburg, part of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, was founded in 1887 after gold and coal discoveries. A muddy vlei was later transformed into a 150,000-square-metre lake, which became the heart of the town’s social life.
A Once-Popular Recreational Gem
By the early 20th century, Boksburg Lake was surrounded by lush lawns, terraces, and picnic areas, making it a prime boating, swimming, and fishing destination. Families flocked to the lake for weekend getaways, and businesses thrived around the bustling hub.
Decades of Neglect and Pollution
However, the lake has suffered a steady decline due to industrial runoff, sewage leaks, and poor waste management. Today, the water is contaminated, wildlife has disappeared, and local businesses have shut down.
Millions Spent, But Little Progress
R15 Million Project (2015)
- Expanded the park by 10,000 sqm
- Built perimeter fencing, walkways, and an amphitheater
- Installed recreational facilities like jungle gyms and sports courts
Outcome: Many facilities are now damaged or vandalized.
R33 Million Project (2023-Present)
- Repairs to bridges and embankments
- Installation of floating wetlands and litter traps
- Plans for debris diversion and aeration systems
Outcome: The lake remains polluted, with major project delays.
Ongoing Issues:
Sewage pollution—stormwater drains leak untreated waste into the lake
Litter & debris—trash and rubble continue to accumulate
Security concerns—vandalism, theft, and illegal dumping persist
“The critical problem with Boksburg Lake is the constant inflow of sewage into the municipal stormwater system that drains into the lake.” – Francois P. Coetzee (Environmental Investigator)
Community Efforts vs. Municipal Inaction
Local groups & volunteers regularly organize clean-up drives to remove litter and restore greenery. However, without municipal intervention, their efforts feel like a losing battle.
The City of Ekurhuleni claims to be working on a maintenance and security plan, but residents say little has changed.
Workers tasked with cleaning the lake expressed concerns over health risks, as they were forced to sift through sewage-contaminated water without proper protective gear.
Will Boksburg Lake Ever Be Restored?
The city promises future rehabilitation, but without proper oversight, accountability, and enforcement, the lake’s decline will continue.
What needs to happen?
Enforce anti-pollution laws—hold polluters accountable
Improve waste management—prevent illegal dumping
Secure public spaces—increase security to stop vandalism
Enhance community involvement—partner with local organizations
What do you think? Should more be done to save Boksburg Lake? Share your thoughts below!
Despite millions spent and years of rehabilitation efforts, Boksburg Lake remains in crisis. Without stronger action from local authorities, this once-thriving landmark may never recover.
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