Volume 10,Issue 01

Geospatial Analysis of Fuel and Gas Station Distribution: Evaluating the Compliance and Impact of Station Siting on Public Health and Safety in Kumasi, Ghana

Authors

Richard Boadu Antwi , Stephen Okai, Jonathan Quaye-Ballard, Eren Erman Ozguven

Abstract
Poor siting of fuel/gas stations pose a high risk to public health, increase traffic levels, increase noise pollution, and create potential hazards to safer urban environments. Utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) tools and traditional field observations, the problem of improper station citing which is difficult for local agencies to track can be studied and analyzed to identify possible solutions. This study explores the spatial analysis of fuel and gas station locations within the Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana, juxtaposed against regulatory standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local governing bodies like the Town and Country Planning Department. Utilizing GIS tools, the point density and network analysis of stations and public institutions were studied and compared based on their conformity to regulatory standards. The study accurately captured and integrated station locations into the Kumasi map environment for analysis. Analysis of 153 stations revealed that 86% were independently owned, with a notable portion failing to meet prescribed distance requirements. Specifically, 69% of fuel and 36% of gas stations did not meet the minimum distance criteria to other stations, while 14% failed to adhere to proximity requirements to roads. Additionally, 39% of fuel and 67% of gas stations were situated in areas deemed critical, posing potential risks to nearby public institutions. These findings underscore critical deficiencies in adherence to regulatory standards, as only 18% of stations met all EPA requirements. With a significant portion violating at least one criterion, and some even violating multiple guidelines, the study advocates for enhanced regulatory oversight and proactive measures to ensure proper station siting. By addressing these issues, regulatory bodies can mitigate potential hazards, safeguard public health, and foster safer urban environments.

Keyword: Gas Stations, Geographic Information Science (GIS), Remote Sensing, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Spatial Analysis.

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