The role of transport and communication infrastructure in realising development outcomes

Abstract

This chapter focusses on the role of transportation as a factor of development. Since efficient transportation is linked with social welfare and economic opportunities, investments in transportation infrastructure are expected to create positive multiplying effects. However, developing countries have been impacted by a lack of transport infrastructure investments, a lack of capacity, managerial deficiencies, a lack of coordination between modes and challenges in supporting national and international distribution imperatives. Globalisation has been associated with rising mobilities of passengers and freight and has spurred investments in the development of ports, airports, railways and highways across a wide range of countries and contexts. Impacts are contingent upon the existing level of development and the existing quality and efficiency of infrastructure as well as modal preferences.