Geomorphic and Anthropogenic Influences on Street Flooding in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
Geomorphic and Anthropogenic Influences on Street Flooding in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria

Summary/Abstract: Street flooding has become a common feature of most coastal towns in Nigeria especially during the rainy season. Calabar has had its fair share of urban flooding since the late 60's when it assumed the status of a capital city. Indeed, the influx of population into Calabar from the rural hinterland of Akwa Ibom and Cross River States resulting in the expansion of residential areas and the multiplication of paved surfaces including roads and sidewalks, have aggravated this menace. A lot of marginal lands and swamps have been reclaimed in the process, leading to about 50 percent loss of wetlands. Looking at it from this perspective, one may be forced to conclude that human factors have been largely responsible for the Calabar flood problem. Yet without the physical element of heavy rainfall, topography and poor drainage the town would not experience a single square meter of flooded surface. This paper examines the topographical features of this estuarine town sandwiched in between two rivers, the Great Qua and Calabar Rivers and concludes that flooding in the city emanates from its topography and a geosyncline which dissects the town. Indeed, the streets are flooded by flood water outlets from this great depression. Hence, any solution to the Calabar street flooding problem must revolve around the stabilization of this great geosyncline or depression and an understanding of its tributaries. With regards to waste management, the situation in Calabar is fairer than other Nigerian towns. Yet much needs to be done in the area of funding, staff attitude to work, waste disposal habit of individuals, vehicles and equipment etc.

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