Abstract
Many researchers have described pH as heavy metals pollution indicator in soil, but no effort has been made to determine level or quantity of heavy metals that could be indicated by pH. This study measured in-situ soil pH values at Nekede motor mechanic village against the natural background values. We used readings obtained to compute pH enrichment factor (pHeF) at several measurement points. Pollution index (Pi) data from previous work in the same mechanic village serve as a comparative statistical tool. Result shows that pHeF have strong relationship with Pi, with correlation coefficient (r): 0.8. While Pi range was 1.6-2.1, with a mean value of 1.8, pHeF range was 1.7-2.0 with same mean value of 1.8. This revelation suggests that in heavy metal contaminated topsoil, pHeF tends to Pi. A pHeF of 1 implies a Pi of 1, which indicates zero pollution. In this case, the soil condition for pHeF and Pi is neutral. pHeF 1 = Acidity and toxicity of soil at threshold ≤ 5.515, while Pi > 1 = pollution. pHeF shows degree of heavy metal contamination in soil for urgent decision making, where Pi that depends on sophisticated stereoscopic analysis may not be available. Future studies shall consider food security around mechanic villages.
Highlights
A large area of land mapped out by government for automobile repair works within the surrounding area of a city or town is a mechanic village
The study started with routine observation of activities that go on in the Nekede mechanic village and a reconnaissance study of the area was done at the beginning of the study
It is an effective tool for heavy metal qualitative pollution assessment and classification
Summary
A large area of land mapped out by government for automobile repair works within the surrounding area of a city or town is a mechanic village. It is a common practice in Nigeria and many other developing countries for cities to allocate large tracts of land, sometimes reaching 5 ha or more, to groups of small scale motor repair workers. Such places are designated as villages where allied workers and traders occupy to offer their services to the public. For lack of proper planning, the Nekede mechanic village could not resist urban residential and business encroachment after ten years
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
