Spatial Analysis and Geographic Information System (GIS) Mapping of Noise Pollution in Bosso Local Government Council, Niger State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was designed and executed such that a noise pollution profile for Bosso Local Government Council of Niger State would be successfully presented. The aim and objectives of this study is the application of the knowledge of spatial analysis and Geographic Information System mapping to contribute towards the preparation of a framework for a noise pollution database for Bosso Local Government Council. Data collection was facilitated by both the use of the hand-held GPS units and the sound level meter. Stations of interest were appropriately geo-referenced and marked in the conventional way. The stations were revisited with the noise level equipment and information about the sources of environmental noise, the corresponding values of noise, and the status of noise pollution were logged sequentially from one point to the next. Further, by the use of the Geographic Information System (GIS), a noise pollution layer for Bosso Local Government Council was created. It can be deduced from the pollution map produced by this project work that, overall, the noise level regime over Tudun Fulani, Maikunkely, Bosso, Maitumbi and Chanchaga neighbourhoods are quite high because a significant number of households and business locations use alternative power sources when the central power supply is cut. This decibel layer map could now serve as a veritable urban development tool that would assist public health officials and town planners recommend appropriate actions to be taken to safeguard the noise-related hazard of the citizenry.