Image Credits : The Kathmandu Post
Despite billions of dollars in investment, the infrastructure development in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, has yielded disappointing results, according to recent evaluations. Economists describe the situation as a cascading failure, where the breakdown of individual components leads to the overall failure of the infrastructure project.
Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant pilgrimage destination, has seen substantial financial commitments aimed at enhancing its infrastructure to boost tourism and support local development. However, the anticipated benefits have not materialized, leading to widespread criticism and concern about the effectiveness of the investments.
The development efforts, which included the construction of roads, accommodation facilities, and other essential infrastructure, were intended to transform Lumbini into a world-class pilgrimage and tourist destination. Yet, reports suggest that many of these projects have either stalled or failed to meet the quality and functionality expected.
The event has been referred to by economists as a “cascading failure,” a phrase that characterizes the phenomenon where the failure of one component of a system causes the breakdown of other interconnected components. In Lumbini’s case, issues such as inadequate planning, poor execution, and lack of coordination among stakeholders have contributed to the overall inefficiency and ineffectiveness of the development projects.
Local stakeholders and officials have expressed frustration over the underperformance of the investments. The promised improvements, including enhanced visitor facilities and infrastructure upgrades, have not translated into the expected economic and social benefits for the region. This has raised questions about the allocation of funds and the oversight of the projects.
The situation highlights broader concerns about infrastructure development in Nepal, where similar issues have plagued other high-profile projects. The failure to deliver on promises of improved infrastructure has implications for the country’s ability to attract and retain investment, particularly in crucial sectors like tourism and cultural heritage.
In response to the criticisms, the government has announced plans to review and audit the existing projects in Lumbini. This audit aims to identify the specific causes of the failures and to implement corrective measures to salvage and improve the ongoing development efforts. The results of this audit are expected to guide future investments and project management strategies to ensure that they deliver tangible benefits to the region and its stakeholders.