Infrastructure is the totality of physical structures, systems and facilities that support the basic functioning of a society or organisation and are necessary to sustain daily life. Infrastructure supports economic, social and cultural development and provides the basic requirements for the sustainable growth of a country or region. Infrastructure supports activities in various sectors, creating a safe, effective and efficient environment.
Infrastructure services cover activities involving the design, construction, operation and maintenance of basic physical structures for the proper functioning and development of a society or enterprise. This infrastructure provides basic needs such as energy, water, communication, transport and housing.
These are examples of infrastructure services:
- Road and Transport Infrastructure: Construction and maintenance of transport networks such as roads, railways, bridges, airports, harbours and public transport systems.
- Energy Infrastructure: Electricity generation, transmission and distribution networks, power plants and the use of alternative energy sources.
- Water and Waste Water Infrastructure: Water supply, treatment plants, sewerage systems and waste water management infrastructures.
- Communication Infrastructure: Telephone lines, fibre optic networks, internet infrastructure and wireless communication networks.
- Housing and Construction Infrastructure: Building of residential buildings, office buildings, commercial centres, etc. and infrastructure works.
- Health Infrastructure: Design, construction and operation of hospitals, health centres, medical equipment and facilities.
- Educational Infrastructure: Schools, universities, training centres and providing training materials.
- Infrastructure Maintenance and Repair Services: Maintenance, repair and improvement works for the sustainability and safety of the existing infrastructure.
- Public Services: The provision of public services that affect the general health, safety and welfare of the population.
Infrastructure Development and Planning: Managing the planning, financing and implementation of infrastructure projects.
Infrastructure services are vital for improving a community's quality of life and supporting economic growth. Sustainable infrastructure development requires long-term strategies that take into account environmental and social impacts