Mapping land use diversity in new GRA, Idah local government area, Kogi, State: Towards sustainable township development
In light of swift urbanization and the lack of precise land use maps in urban regions, comprehending land use patterns becomes vital for efficient planning and promoting sustainable development. The objective of this study is to assess the land use pattern in order to catalyze sustainable township development in the study area. The procedure adopted involved acquiring the cadastral layout plan of the study area, scanning, and digitizing it. Additionally, satellite imagery of the area was obtained, and both the cadastral plan and satellite imagery were geo-referenced and digitized using ArcGIS 9.2 software. These processes resulted in reasonable accuracy, with a root mean square (RMS) error of 0.002 inches, surpassing the standard of 0.004 inches. The digitized cadastral plan and satellite imagery were overlaid to produce a layered digital map of the area. A social survey of the area was conducted to identify the specific use of individual plots. Furthermore, a relational database system was created in ArcCatalog to facilitate data management and querying. The research findings demonstrated the approach's effectiveness in enabling queries for the use of any particular plot, making it adaptable to a wide range of inquiries. Notably, the study revealed the diverse purposes for which different plots were utilized, including residential, commercial, educational, and lodging. An essential aspect of land use mapping is identifying areas prone to risks and hazards, such as rising sea levels, flooding, drought, and fire. The research contributes to sustainable township development by pinpointing these vulnerable zones and providing valuable insights for urban planning and risk mitigation strategies. This is a valuable resource for urban planners, policymakers, and stakeholders, enabling them to make informed decisions to optimize land use and promote sustainable development in the study area.