What Environmental Hazards, Risks Lagos-Calabar Highway May Pose to Communities, Workers
According to a report by the Environmental Assessment Department of the Federal Ministry of Environment, the proposed highway construction may negatively impact the social and physical environment within which it is being executed.
These include noise and dust pollution from site preparation and material transportation that could impact the surrounding communities.
Others are ineffective or lack of waste management to prevent environmental harm from site and camp waste, soil contamination from stored fuel, lubricants and paints as they pose risks if not well managed.
On health and safety issues, workers involved in construction may face health risks unless proper facilities and safety measures at the workers’ camp are in place, as well as ensuring public safety near construction zones.
The report identified what may cause harm because of the often rapid and disorderly work pace to include a strong emphasis on completing the project on time thus not protecting the environment.
It said, construction activities occur only once but can have lasting effects due to site preparation, earthworks, waste generation, traffic and safety, which are localised and reversible. These impacts, the report further said are rated as significant and are considered minor in duration since construction activities are temporary.
The report also advised that proper construction management practices must be considered as crucial “to minimising negative impacts, while adherence to safety protocols and environmental safeguards as well as proactive measures, hinged on responsible construction practices and continuous monitoring to mitigate any adverse effects during the construction phase.”
The report noted that based on the design of the project, those impacts could be divided into two.
“First, short-term construction-related impacts typical of building construction activities, include several significant factors. Communities might resist land acquisition for the highway, which can lead to delays and disputes. Ensuring fair compensation for affected landowners and communities is critical for maintaining goodwill and resettling communities while minimising disruption, which requires thoughtful planning and sensitivity.
“Geological and environmental factors are also a concern. The construction of the coastal highway could lead to habitat destruction, disrupting ecosystems along the route. Altering the coastal landscape may increase vulnerability to erosion and flooding, with the coastal region’s susceptibility to erosion posing a risk to soil stability and overall highway integrity.
“Natural features such as swamps, mangroves, and wetlands complicate foundation work and roadbed construction. Striking a balance between development and environmental conservation is crucial, with efforts needed to minimise harm to local ecosystems and wildlife habitats.”
The report further noted that the project also presented infrastructural and logistics challenges.
“Transporting construction materials over long distances can be costly and time-consuming. Developing access roads to remote construction sites is challenging, and building durable bridges across rivers and estuaries demands specialised engineering expertise.
“Security and safety concerns must also be addressed. The highway passes through regions with security challenges, such as militancy and banditry, making it essential to ensure the safety of workers and equipment. Coordinating traffic during construction, especially in densely populated areas, requires careful planning,” it asserted.
The report further indicated that proper drainage design was necessary to prevent water logging and erosion, and constructing bridges that could withstand environmental forces and heavy traffic was a significant task.
“Efficient use of resources is necessary to optimise project outcomes, and increased social vices and other community-related challenges may arise, requiring proactive management.”