The spatial impact of the relocation of a section of the Zaria-Kano road: a study of change and development in rural Zaria

The exact role of the transport sector in the development process is still a subject of controversy. Most studies have involved a narrow cost-benefit analysis done on the basis of road usage. However, a better understanding of the complex forces engendered by the introduction of roads into an area, or their improvement, can only be found on both macro- and micro-analytical levels.This study examines the effect of road improvement on its immediate locality. It focuses specifically on the short-term impact of road relocation within the rural area in relation to the following questions: what happens when a trunk road is opened through a hitherto isolated rural area? What happens when there is a permanent diversion of traffic on a transport route, especially with reference to human settlements, socioeconomic activities and community welfare?The study reveals that a locational change of transport route immediately created two distinct zones. The first was a zone of decaying or contracting opportunities along the old route, and then a zone of expanding opportunities along the new route. The implication of this is that the benefits of improved transport routes on the immediate locality may not necessarily be beneficial to all residents.