Abandoned mines, homes for the people: case study of Jos Tin mining region

Parsa, A; Wapwera, SD; Egbu, CO

Abstract

This paper will assess the impact of the pre-tin mining activities and its effects on the built environment and specifically housing in Jos Region. Utilising secondary data mapping out ten (10) different locations in the region the paper highlights the level of radioactive substances (X-ray, beta –ray and gamma rays), and presence of heavy metals in the environment. Subsequent analysis shows that the radioactive substances exceed the international standards and therefore have a serious impact on the health of the local population who reside in the affected area. This is particularly significant as people use the contaminated soil as a basic material for their homes as well as farming and food production. With overpopulation of neighbouring city and rising house prices, an increasing number of people have moved to the tin-mining areas often without any knowledge about the perils of contaminated soil. At the same time, the planning authority has no presence in the affected area as it falls outside its jurisdiction. However, there is an urgent need to address this problem and prevent people from moving to this area otherwise this would become a serious long term human catastrophe. Drawing from international experience the paper argues that it is possible to develop housing in former tin mining areas but require careful remediation and engagement by the public and private sector.

Citation

Parsa, A., Wapwera, S., & Egbu, C. (2011, September). Abandoned mines, homes for the people: case study of Jos Tin mining region. Presented at COBRA 2011, University of Salford

• Presentation Conference Type: Other
• Conference Name: COBRA 2011
• Conference Location: University of Salford
• Start Date: Sep 12, 2011
• End Date: Sep 13, 2011
• Publication Date: Sep 1, 2011
• Deposit Date: Oct 19, 2011
• Additional Information: Event Type : Conference