GIS AND REMOTE SENSING ANALYSIS OF SAND MINING ACTIVITIES IN YENAGOA: IMPLICATIONS FOR SHORELINE STABILITY

Abstract

This study examines the impact of sand mining activities on the environment and host communities within Yenagoa using GIS and remote sensing techniques. Two zones, Famgbe and Obogoro communities along the Ikoli river and Tombia and Agudama-Ekpetiama communities along River Nun, were assessed in terms of environmental, infrastructural, and ground damage. Onsite observations, satellite imagery, and land use maps were used to analyze the damages caused by mining activities such as dredging and end-use activities such as filling and construction. Results reveal a direct link between the sand mining activities and damages to infrastructure, the natural environment, and shoreline migration. There is an increase in bare land and river expansion with increasing mining sites and dumpsites over the years. The study concludes that shoreline erosion has resulted from these activities, which are carried out indiscriminately in the study area without adequate licensing or monitoring. The findings of this study can serve as a basis for regulatory authorities to develop policies that protect the environment and host communities from the negative effects of sand mining activities