In today's rapidly evolving world, infrastructure plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, enhancing social well-being, and addressing environmental challenges. However, many developing countries, including Sri Lanka, face significant hurdles in advancing their infrastructure agendas. This article explores the policies and practices employed by other developing nations to overcome similar challenges and offers insights into areas where Sri Lanka can learn and improve.
National Infrastructure Plans
Developing countries like Malaysia and Indonesia have successfully implemented comprehensive national infrastructure plans to guide their development efforts. For example, Malaysia's Economic Transformation Program (ETP) outlines priority projects across various sectors, including transportation, energy, and telecommunications. The ETP provides a clear roadmap for infrastructure development, identifies key investment opportunities, and mobilizes resources effectively. Similarly, Indonesia's Master Plan for Acceleration and Expansion of Economic Development (MP3EI) serves as a strategic blueprint for infrastructure development, focusing on improving connectivity, reducing regional disparities, and promoting sustainable growth. These national plans facilitate coordination among government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and international partners, fostering a conducive environment for infrastructure investment and implementation.
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Countries such as Brazil and India have embraced PPPs to address infrastructure financing constraints and leverage private sector expertise. Brazil's successful implementation of PPPs in sectors like transportation, sanitation, and energy has attracted significant private investment and facilitated the delivery of critical infrastructure projects. Initiatives like India's National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) have effectively utilized PPP models to accelerate road infrastructure development, enhance operational efficiency, and improve service quality. By partnering with the private sector, these countries have been able to overcome funding limitations, optimize resource allocation, and expedite project delivery, thereby driving economic growth and enhancing public service delivery.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations
Vietnam and Thailand have established robust EIA regulations to ensure sustainable infrastructure development and minimize environmental degradation. Vietnam's Law on Environmental Protection mandates EIAs for all major projects, requiring comprehensive assessments of potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures. The EIA process in Vietnam involves extensive stakeholder consultation, public participation, and regulatory oversight, promoting transparency and accountability in decision-making. Similarly, Thailand's EIA regulations require developers to assess the environmental, social, and cultural impacts of proposed projects, adhere to strict mitigation measures, and obtain approval from relevant authorities before commencement. By integrating environmental considerations into the project planning and approval process, these countries aim to safeguard natural resources, protect ecosystems, and mitigate adverse environmental impacts associated with infrastructure development.
Social Safeguards and Community Engagement
Colombia and South Africa have implemented effective social safeguards and community engagement mechanisms to address the social impacts of infrastructure projects and promote inclusive development. In Colombia, the Consulta Previa process ensures the participation of indigenous communities in decision-making on projects affecting their territories, safeguarding their rights and interests. The Consulta Previa process requires developers to consult with affected communities, obtain their free, prior, and informed consent, and incorporate their input into project design and implementation. Similarly, South Africa's Infrastructure Development Act mandates social impact assessments and community consultations for all major projects, ensuring that infrastructure development benefits local communities, respects their cultural heritage, and enhances their quality of life. By prioritizing social safeguards and community engagement, these countries aim to address social inequalities, promote social cohesion, and foster sustainable and inclusive development outcomes.
Renewable Energy Policies
Costa Rica and Kenya serve as models for promoting renewable energy adoption and transitioning towards a low-carbon economy. Costa Rica's ambitious renewable energy targets and incentives have propelled it towards achieving nearly 100% renewable electricity generation, primarily from hydroelectric, wind, geothermal, and solar sources. The country's renewable energy policies include tax incentives, feed-in tariffs, and favorable regulatory frameworks to encourage investment in renewable energy projects and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Similarly, Kenya's Feed-in Tariff (FiT) program has been instrumental in attracting investment in wind and solar energy projects, diversifying the country's energy mix, and enhancing energy security. The FiT program provides long-term contracts and guaranteed prices for renewable energy producers, creating a favorable investment climate and stimulating renewable energy deployment. By embracing renewable energy policies, these countries have demonstrated their commitment to combatting climate change, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting sustainable energy development.
As Sri Lanka strives to bridge its infrastructure gap and achieve sustainable development goals, it can draw valuable lessons from the experiences of other developing countries. By adopting best practices in national planning, embracing innovative financing models, prioritizing environmental and social safeguards, and promoting renewable energy, Sri Lanka can overcome its infrastructure challenges and pave the way for inclusive and resilient growth. By learning from the successes and failures of others, Sri Lanka can position itself as a leader in sustainable infrastructure development, driving prosperity for generations to come.
Featured image: Architecture by Denys Nevozhai/Pexels
Written by Shanika Gamage
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this article reflect the author’s views, and not the wider views of the Alliance for Sustainable Infrastructure.