Engineers’ Role Crucial in Quality Infrastructure Development, Says Energy Minister

Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Minister Viraj Bhatt Shrestha has emphasized the importance of engineers’ roles and responsibilities in developing quality and sustainable infrastructure for the country’s prosperity.

Speaking at an event in Lalitpur on Sunday, Minister Shrestha stated that the primary responsibility for building modern infrastructure in sectors such as roads, bridges, hydropower, transmission lines, irrigation, and information technology lies with the technical workforce.

The government has given high priority to developing quality, safe, and environmentally friendly infrastructure, according to Minister Shrestha. He added that the expansion of hydropower production, strengthening of national and international transmission networks, modernization of irrigation systems, and development of digital infrastructure are all part of the government’s strategic thinking.

Minister Shrestha also informed that a new policy has been introduced to measure the success of projects not only by budget expenditure but also by timely completion, cost discipline, and direct benefits to citizens.

Highlighting the government’s goal of developing the energy sector as a key driver of economic transformation, Minister Shrestha expressed his confidence that skilled engineers will play a crucial role in promoting regional power trade and renewable energy.

‘The development of modern infrastructure such as roads, bridges, hydropower, transmission lines, irrigation, water supply, buildings, and information technology is crucial for the country’s prosperity, and engineers have a significant responsibility in this regard,’ Minister Shrestha said. ‘We are now entering a new phase of infrastructure development. I would like to remind you that the government has given high priority to developing quality, sustainable, safe, and environmentally friendly infrastructure.’

‘The expansion of hydropower production, strengthening of national and international transmission networks, modernization of irrigation systems, ensuring energy security, expanding digital infrastructure, and climate-resilient development programs are all part of our strategic thinking,’ he added. ‘The government is committed to a policy that prioritizes quality along with construction. The success of projects will now be measured not only by budget expenditure but also by timely completion, cost discipline, and direct benefits to citizens.’

Minister Shrestha also emphasized that infrastructure development should be understood not only as physical structures but also as a means of social justice and economic prosperity.