Evincing the social and economic impact of inland waterways transportation in the development of the Port Harcourt metropolis

Abstract

Road traffic congestion has been decreased by using water transportation. The impact of inland waterways transportation on the socio-economic growth of Port Harcourt Metropolis was investigated in this essay. The study adopted a quantitative research approach using a cross-sectional survey design and employed a multi-stage sampling technique. The first stage involves identifying the locations of the jetties and navigable routes available in the metropolis. The second stage involves the listing of the jetties and navigable routes found within the study area which nine (9) jetties and navigable routes were identified. The third stage involves purposively selecting six (6) jetties out of the nine (9) jetties listed. The selected jetties and navigable routes include (Bonny/Bille/Nembe, Marine Base, Abonnema Wharf, Maccoba, Iwofe, and Akpos). The six (6) jetties were selected because of their frequent usage by commuters. The fourth stage involves randomly selecting 200 commuters who are using these jetties and navigable routes for sampling. Using a random sample technique, a structured questionnaire was designed and distributed to the commuters to acquire data for the study. Descriptive statistics (tables and charts) and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data set. Other sources of data for the study include direct observation and photographs to characterise the study area and inland waterways transportation development in the metropolis. The reason the study chose to focus on the commuters and boat operators is because the commuters and operators are individuals who commonly use inland waterways transportation systems. The study found that lack of funds, poor river basin dredging and canalisation, insufficient security and infrastructure, a lack of safety devices, and inadequate training of boat operators and drivers are among the issues and obstacles. Therefore, the study recommends that the government should support efforts to enhance boat service operations for sustainable modes of transportation to promote their use by more people and ease traffic on the roads.