ABUJA: Development, is what every well-meaning people crave and pray for at all times and season. However, no matter how much people desire development, none prays for the type that will bring them deaths, pains, agonies and calamities.
The passage of gas pipelines through the ever busy communities in Ika land, such as Ekwoma, via the Lagos/Asaba express road, Igbodo Market, Lagos/Asaba express road axis of Umunede Kingdom, and the Uromi Junction area of Agbor town to mention but a few, should be reconsidered.
Though not yet Uhuru, Ika nation, over the years have witnessed one form of development or the other by successive governments. Despite this, absolute care and caution must be taken not to negligently subject most thriving and existing communities in Ika land to imminent danger, because of development.
The ongoing plan to pass gas pipelines through developed towns and communities, especially in densely populated residential and commercial areas, must be looked into carefully. The Ika communities are tightly linked together hence, a fire incident on one part may spread to other parts rapidly .
We must recall, that Agbor metropolis , for instance has been witnessing incessant fire incidents and infernos , linked to gas and its associated products via tanker explosions, sparks at fueling stations and other accidental sources in recent years.
By nature, gas is very highly inflammable and based on this, pipelines are meant to pass through bushes and areas not densely populated. The associated risks and dangers of passing gas pipelines through densely populated communities are very high and if not properly handled, it can wipe away such communities in a matter of minutes.
Gas pipelines can pose significant risks to communities near their routes in many ways.
First and foremost, there is the risk of explosions resulting to infernos:
Gas pipeline ruptures or leakages can lead to devastating explosions and fire, causing injuries, loss of lives and properties.
Moreso, undetected gas leakages can accumulate in confined spaces, leading to explosions or fires.
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Secondly, there is the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning: Gas leakages can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be fatal and pose serious health hazards to the host communities.
Other concerns bothers on environmental issues , like water contamination:
Gas pipeline construction or accidents can contaminate nearby water sources, posing health risks to humans and wildlife.
Furthermore, Pipeline leakages or ruptures can release hazardous materials into the soil, affecting local ecosystems.
Mention must be made that gas pipeline emissions can contribute to air pollutions, which negatively impact local air quality.
When gas pipelines pass through towns and Villages inhabited by people, it posses significant health risks such as;
RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS:
Exposure to gas pipeline emissions can exacerbate respiratory issues, such as asthma.
Consequently, some studies suggest a link between gas pipeline emissions and increased cancer risks, thereby raising some cancer concerns.
NEUROLOGICAL EFFECTS:
Exposure to gas pipeline emissions has been linked to neurological problems, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
In making decisions such as passing gas pipelines through densely populated communities, government apart from analysing and considering environmental hazardous impacts, should also take cognizance of issues such as
PROPERTY DAMAGES:
Gas pipeline accidents or leakages can damage nearby properties, affecting homeowners and businesses.
ECONOMIC DISRUPTION:
Pipeline accidents or shutdowns can disrupt local businesses and economies.
No one, will want to live daily with the thought of death staring in his/her face. The presence of a gas pipeline can create anxiety and stress among community residents, particularly those living near the pipeline and this can attract needless daily anxieties.
This said, undoubtedly, there are benefits accruals to host communities of gas pipelines.
Such benefits include the following:
1. JOB CREATION:
Gas pipeline construction and maintenance can create jobs for local communities.
2. ECONOMIC GROWTH:
Pipelines can stimulate local economic growth by providing access to energy resources.
3. INCREASED REVENUE GENERATION:
Pipelines can generate significant tax revenue for local governments.
4. RELIABLE ENERGY SUPPLY:
Gas pipelines provide a reliable and consistent supply of energy to power homes, businesses, and industries.
5. DIVERSIFIED ENERGY MIX:
Pipelines can help diversify the energy mix by providing access to different types of energy sources.
6. REDUCED ENERGY COSTS:
Pipelines can reduce energy costs by providing a more efficient and cost-effective ways to transport energy.
Below, however are some measures that government must put in place in respect of gas pipeline passages through communities.
1. Regular pipeline inspection:
Regular inspection can help identify potential issues before they become major problems.
2. Pipeline maintenance: Regular maintenance can help prevent pipeline failures.
3. Emergency preparedness:
Communities should have good emergency response plans in place, in case of a pipeline accident.
4. Public Education: Educating the public about gas pipeline safety can help prevent accidents and minimize risks.
Having critically and analytically dissected the subject, it is imperative to note that no matter the potential benefits and likely developments that are connected to gas pipelines passages in communities, the government must continue to do all within her power(s) to ensure the safety of lives and properties of her citizenry. There is compelling need for a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment, EIA, before such an obviously laudable project is executed, so that it does not eventually become the people’s nightmare.
Dr. Nkwor Sunday Azuka is a concerned Ika Son
