Study of Environmental Impacts of Road Transport Activities in the Federal Capital Territory

The rapid growth of road transport in Nigerian cities has generated significant environmental pressures, including air pollution, noise disturbance, and land degradation. This study examines the environmental impacts of road transport activities in the Federal Capital Territory, with a focus on the Kubwa-City Centre corridor and the Nyanya-Mararaba transport axis. A descriptive environmental survey design was adopted, combining air quality measurements using portable particulate and carbon monoxide monitors with questionnaire data from 150 residents and 40 transport regulators. Noise level assessments were also conducted at six residential zones adjacent to major roads. The study evaluates the concentration of transport-related pollutants, community health perceptions, and existing regulatory responses to transport emissions. Findings reveal that particulate matter concentrations along major corridors regularly exceed World Health Organisation permissible limits, particularly during morning and evening peak hours. Residents report high incidences of respiratory complaints, sleep disturbance, and vehicular noise-related stress. Most vehicles assessed were found to lack functioning catalytic converters or to be using adulterated fuel. Regulatory enforcement of vehicle emission standards is characterised as negligible. Recommendations include the enforcement of mandatory emission testing, the phased introduction of cleaner fuel standards, and the establishment of low-emission zones in residential areas near highways. These findings advance the environmental dimension of transport management research in North Central Nigeria. Keywords: transport emissions, environmental impact, Federal Capital Territory, air quality, road transport.