Final answer:
Infrastructure development in Nepal faces challenges such as deforestation, environmental degradation, aging infrastructure, and population growth. Political instability and economic uncertainty further inhibit progress, creating a trade-off between public service funding and tourism investment. Limited globalization and underdevelopment of basic utilities also play a significant role in hindering development.
Step-by-step explanation:
Challenges in Developing Infrastructure in Nepal
The development of infrastructure in Nepal faces multiple challenges, among which are issues stemming from deforestation and environmental degradation. As trees are cut down for firewood and construction materials, the loss of foliage leads to soil erosion, negatively impacting agriculture, which is a mainstay of Nepal's economy. The high population growth exacerbates this issue, as there is a clash between land conservation and agricultural expansion. Moreover, Nepal's rugged terrain and the towering Himalayas present physical challenges to the development of infrastructures such as roads and bridges. In some parts of Nepal, such as the Terai lowlands, agricultural land is abundant, but infrastructure investment often competes with the need for essential public services like schools and medical clinics.
Furthermore, Nepal's economy relies significantly on tourism, which requires substantial infrastructure investments to support. This creates a difficult trade-off between utilizing funds for immediate public services or longer-term economic growth through tourism-related infrastructure. Additionally, the challenges of aging infrastructure, such as aging bridges, a lack of accessible and reliable public transportation, and the need for renewable energy sources further complicate development efforts.
Political instability due to frequent protests and economic uncertainty also poses a considerable barrier to the development of infrastructure. The resulting political tension can discourage foreign investment and tourism, which are essential for economic progression. Globalization also remains limited in Nepal, with less developed infrastructure where basic utilities like electricity and clean water face inconsistent availability.