Residents and visitors of Lagoa da Jansen in São Luís, Brazil, have been voicing their complaints about a pervasive bad smell that has been noticeable in recent days. According to specialists, this issue could be attributed to several factors including low water circulation, the decomposition of organic material, and the illegal discharge of sewage into the lagoon. Such environmental concerns may threaten the health of both locals and the aquatic ecosystem.

The area surrounding Lagoa da Jansen, which is known for its mangroves and greenery, is home to various species of birds and fish. Although it was transformed into an ecological park in 1988, featuring running tracks, bike paths, kiosks, and a police post, the recent unpleasant odor has deterred many from enjoying the outdoor facilities. Residents have expressed frustration over the situation, with some mentioning that the smell is so strong it bothers them even inside their homes, leading them to resort to air fresheners that fail to mitigate the issue.

The problem was highlighted further when a dark stain was captured by surveillance cameras recently. A biologist consulted in the report stated that while the symptoms are clear, it remains difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the odor at this time. The ongoing issues at Lagoa da Jansen underscore the need for improved environmental management and public health interventions to address pollution in urban waterways.