Assessing Environmental and Social Outcomes of Unregulated Urban Land Development and Flood Risks in Niamey-5 District, Niger

Abstract

This study examines the vulnerabilities to flood risks arising from the urban soil production process. To achieve this objective, a quantitative data collection approach from households and the creation of thematic maps was used. Land use planning is a nonstructural measure that implies cautious investments and the utilization of land and natural resources in manners that ensure sustainable development and risk reduction. The urban soil production process in Sahelian cities is often carried out without respecting the required urban planning standards. This is not without consequences for the lives of city dwellers. In the Niamey 5 municipal district, urban sprawl is taking place on informal plots. This situation creates urban problems for households. This study shows a strong link between the type of subdivision and exposure to flood risks. Indeed, 60% of households living in informal subdivision areas are in marshy areas compared to 10.98% of households in formal subdivision areas. This finding calls on public decision-makers to take measures to comply with urban planning regulations in the urban soil production process.