A Study of Public Health Impacts during Road Construction Projects in Sri Lanka: A Glance from Experts’ Opinion

Abstract

The environmental impacts of road development, as well as the occupational health and safety of construction workers, have been widely acknowledged and, in many cases, addressed in recent initiatives. However, little consideration has been given to the health effects of road development on nearby communities during the construction process. This study aims to investigate the public health impacts during the construction stage of road projects. The main objective is to identify the potential health impacts that had occurred during the road construction projects. This study included the findings of expert semi-structured interviews and four case studies. Thirty-two expert interviews, along with twelve case study-based interviews, were carried out with the participation of experts on road construction projects, public health and environment management in Sri Lanka. The data was analysed thematically to explore the public health impacts that occurred during the road construction. More than twenty public health issues were identified, including air pollution, noise pollution, water pollution and some of the least discussed impacts, such as mosquito-borne diseases, accidents and wildlife issues. The findings of this study suggest that in order to measure the effects of transport decisions on public health, a more in-depth assessment of health issues is required. These findings highlight the vital significance of expanding capacity, both within and outside of government, to properly understand the public health implications of road development through the impact assessment process. Policymakers should conduct a full public health impact assessment for all road construction projects in order to address the broader public health issues that arise during the process.