In the summer of 1858, London experienced one of the worst environmental disasters in history, known as the Great Stink. The foul smell was so unbearable that it caused people to vomit and faint in the streets. But what caused this disaster?
It all started with the rapid growth of London’s population in the early 19th century. With more people came more waste, and as a result, London’s sewage system became overwhelmed. The existing infrastructure was unable to handle the volume of waste produced by over two million people.
The Thames River
The Thames River played a significant role in this disaster. It was not only a source of drinking water for many Londoners but also a dumping ground for sewage and other waste. As industries developed along the riverbanks, they began discharging their waste into the water as well.
The Hot Summer
The hot summer of 1858 made matters worse. The combination of high temperatures and low water levels caused the sewage to stagnate, creating a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms. As a result, an unbearable stench emanated from the river.
The Government’s Response
The government was forced to take action after members of Parliament were unable to conduct business due to the smell emanating from the river. In response, they formed a committee to investigate and propose solutions.
Joseph Bazalgette
One man who played a pivotal role in solving this crisis was Joseph Bazalgette. He was tasked with designing and implementing a new sewage system that could handle London’s growing population.
- Bazalgette proposed constructing an extensive network of underground sewers that would transport waste away from populated areas.
- He also designed new treatment facilities that would purify wastewater before it was discharged back into the Thames.
- Bazalgette’s plan was eventually approved, and construction began in 1859.
The Aftermath
The new sewage system was completed in 1875 and proved to be a massive success. It eliminated the Great Stink and improved the overall quality of life for Londoners. The Thames, which was once one of the most polluted rivers in the world, became cleaner and safer.
In conclusion, the Great Stink of 1858 was caused by a combination of factors such as London’s growing population, inadequate infrastructure, and hot weather. The crisis forced the government to take action, resulting in a new sewage system that transformed London’s sanitation infrastructure. Today, Joseph Bazalgette is remembered as a hero who helped save London from one of its worst environmental disasters.
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