THE IMPACT OF ROAD CONSTRUCTION, BAD ROAD MAINTENANCE AND MOTOR-VEHICLE ACCIDENTS ON HUMAN HEALTH ON THE ABUJA-KEFFI RESSWAY: A GENERAL LITERATURE REVIEW.
Umoti Yakdum Musa Yakdum Musa
Paper Contents
Abstract
ABSTRACTIn this literature review, we consider some of the major public health implications of the ongoing construction and expansion of the Abuja-Keffi Expressway in Nigeria. This infrastructure project, which entails increasing the number of road lanes from two to six, will be a dual carriageway, and is intended to allow for more efficient transportation and to help reduce traffic congestion. However, the construction, as well as the way in which traffic is directed and managed, presents several public health disadvantages to the public in this area.The review discusses three key areas of health concern. One is the dust pollution that arises due to construction activities, which is a serious problem. Some short-term effects of exposure to dust pollution can include respiratory irritation, skin irritation, and eye irritation. Other consequences of long-term exposure to dust include serious health effects such as silicosis, asbestosis, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular effects, lead poisoning, and even Alzheimer's disease.Second, applying a one-way traffic management strategy to current traffic is a concern, and the added traffic control will expose people to a higher risk of accidents. The analysis revealed the major reported causes of accidents included vehicle failure or faults, that is, brake failure, andor evidence of significant collision as a result of the use of heavy transport trucks, which led to fatalities and injuries.Third, the duration and the traffic management of the construction of the expressway has worsened congestion. Vehicle emissions are related to respiratory diseases, an increase in cardiovascular disease, and lack of consideration for mental health consequences which can include, stress, anxiety, sleep deprivation, and road rage. Commuter congestion can also lead to a loss of productive time. In conclusion, while the expansion of the Abuja-Keffi Expressway offers substantial gains for the long term, it is important to acknowledge and mitigate the numerous complex negative health effects. Addressing the negative health effects is crucial to safeguarding the health of impacted communities, which will benefit from a well-built piece of infrastructure.
Copyright
Copyright © 2025 Umoti Yakdum Musa. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.