Survey of Encroachment of the Benin-Ughelli Transmission Line Right of Way

Abstract

This study examined the environmental impacts of the 107 km Benin-Delta (Ughelli) 330 kV power transmission line (TL) upgrade project right of way (ROW). Encroachment was determined through ground monitoring and GIS mapping. A total of 83 communities lie within the zone of influence of the transmission line. The communities are 8 in Ethoipe West, 27 in Okpe, 21 in Sapele, 5 in Ughelli North, 1 in Udu, 3 in Uvwie and 18 in Ikpoba Okha. A survey of the communities within the sphere of influence of the TL line revealed that 56 communities had encroached into the transmission line ROW: 5 in Ethoipe West, 9 in Okpe, 15 in Sapele, 5 in Ughelli North, 1 in Udu, 3 in Uvwie and 18 in Ikpoba Okha. The encroachers need to be enlightened on the health implication of building under the TL and the socio-economic consequences that may arise as a result of forceful evacuation from the occupied land. For the upgrade of the TL, encroachers should be persuaded to vacate the route.