Invest In Infrastructure To Fight Recession

Have you ever marvelled at the audacious heights of towering skyscrapers, defying gravity as they pierce the sky nearly a kilometre high? Can you fathom how a vast expanse like an ocean is bridged seamlessly by a single, far-reaching structure, resilient against the unrelenting forces of nature — fires, hurricanes, earthquakes, and winds? Picture the intricate network of lengthy tunnels and highways etched through the rugged heart of the earth. These awe-inspiring structures dotting across the world are more than static structures; they are testaments to human achievement. The veracity is unequivocal: their magnificence is a result of the intricate artistry of structural engineering, interwoven into their very essence, akin to a microprocessor within a computer to make it work.

During the throes of economic downturns, when uncertainties abound, governments and institutions strategically channel resources toward preserving and revitalising existing structures while embarking on new construction endeavours. A poignant example emerges from the pages of history: the audacious "Hoover Dam," conceived and executed during the Great Depression. Nestled within the United States, this visionary project harnessed the potent energy of the Colorado River, not only shielding regions southeast of Las Vegas from floods but also ushering in a new era of cost-effective electricity for homes and industries. It forged a path toward employment, breathing hope into countless individuals grappling with unemployment. 

Innovative economy

The echoes of this foresight reverberate across the globe, finding resonance in Japan's resurgence after the devastation of World War II. Here, substantial investments breathed life into a nation's infrastructure, heralding an economic renaissance. Enter the unprecedented upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic — a global disruptor that momentarily arrested the cadence of progress and development. Yet, as the crisis began to ebb, a phoenix of hope arose in the form of Joe Biden's visionary blueprint — a $2 trillion investment in American infrastructure hailed as a "once-in-a-generation" endeavour. This ambitious initiative transcends mere physicality; it pledges to rejuvenate a nation grappling with the aftermath of the pandemic while nurturing the emergence of a robust, resilient, and innovative economy. 

Meanwhile, across the Pacific, China casts its gaze toward a $1.8 trillion construction initiative. This endeavour, aiming to resuscitate an economy jolted by the pandemic, underscores the pivotal role that infrastructure investment plays in post-crisis recovery. These examples underscore the strategic importance of infrastructure investment during periods of economic flux, paving the path for rejuvenation, expansion, and lasting prosperity. But where do structural engineers (SEs) find their niche within this intricate tapestry? Their work transcends time, preserving our heritage by retrofitting the past and moulding the future with innovative designs.

SEs delve into the virtual realm, meticulously constructing computer models of any structures that endure the gusts of wind and the tumult of earthquakes. Their software identifies potential vulnerabilities, allowing issues to be rectified before the first brick is laid. Their ingenuity is a global phenomenon, showcased in the soaring skyscrapers of New York and the ambitious architectural endeavours of Dubai, offering workplaces that stand unswayed. Structural engineering forms the bedrock of a sophisticated economic infrastructure, the very foundation upon which progress and prosperity are built. The incredible prowess of structural engineering becomes evident in our daily lives as we traverse bridges meticulously crafted by skilled structural engineers. 

We inhabit buildings that stand as a testament to their ingenuity. Structural engineers are the safeguard against the peril of earthquakes, the very reason buildings remain steadfast. When the precision of their technology is absent from construction, the consequences during seismic events are stark: entire regions bear witness to catastrophic loss of life. In stark contrast, when harnessed, the artistry of structural engineers might limit casualties to a single individual —perhaps even stemming from fear or heart conditions rather than the earthquake's physical impact. This is where the true power of this profession lies, rooted in the innovation of structural engineers.

Economic downturns 

Drawing lessons from the global emphasis on such investments during times of economic downturn, Nepal must also recognize the significance of investing in infrastructure and harnessing the skills of our engineers. This entails capitalising on their ability to design, innovate in our infrastructural foundation for a prosperous resurgence. Their enduring impact extends beyond mere construction materials to become an integral part of the societal framework, a lasting tribute to the core principles of advancement and tenacity.

In a nutshell, structural engineering is a gift to humanity. The importance of structural engineers in times of economic decline cannot be overstated. Their ability to adapt, innovative thinking, dedication to sustainability, technological expertise, and unwavering resilience all play a vital role in bolstering societies amidst economic instability. As the global economy experiences its ups and downs, structural engineers continue to serve as steadfast pillars, ensuring the safety, functionality, and readiness of infrastructure for a thriving rebound.

(Practicing structural engineer with global experience in the design of high-rise buildings, Dr. Puri holds a PhD from Tokyo University and a postdoc from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, USA.)