THE ECONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE OF HIGHWAYS: A CASE STUDY OF THE BENIN-AUCHI ROAD IN EDO STATE, NIGERIA.

¹Imuetinyan Oke, ¹Sophia Imuetinyan and ²Philomena Osaghae

ABSTRACT

The efficient flow of people and goods within urban areas is hindered by the presence of poor road conditions and insufficient transportation infrastructure. The presence of inadequate infrastructure can present a barrier to both domestic and international investment in urban regions. Based on the collected data, it is evident that a total of 96 individuals have experienced a road accident on this particular route, resulting in a percentage of 22.5 percent. The study extended its investigation to ascertain whether participants had witnessed any vehicular accidents along the designated pathway. Based on the available data, it was observed that 252 individuals responded affirmatively to the statement, whereas 156 individuals responded negatively. A data consisting of 408 participants which pertains to the occurrence of fatalities among the respondents’ relations along the specified route. 106 individuals (24.8%) responded affirmatively, while 292 individuals (68.2%) responded negatively.  The information presented pertains to the time periods of 2010-2015, 2016-2020, and 2021 onwards. The data presented indicates a notable rise in travel duration as a consequence of the poor road conditions. The cost exhibited convergence within the range of 1501 naira to 3000 naira. In contrast to the period spanning from 2010 to 2015, during which the price range fluctuated between 600 naira and 1500 naira.

Keywords: Transportation, Highway, Economic Significance, Road, Benin, Auchi