Issue Collapse of local infrastructure outside the capital region

Summary

Local infrastructure covers not only roads, transport, electricity, water and telecommunications but also schools, hospitals and cultural facilities that sustain residents' quality of life and economic activity. Capital-region concentration, weakening regional industry, low fertility and ageing have eroded essential infrastructure in the provinces. Infrastructure shortfalls then drive further out-migration, which in turn accelerates the collapse of infrastructure in a repeating vicious circle. The survey describes this collapse as both a core cause and a result of regional extinction, leading to economic contraction, poorer everyday services and deeper national imbalance. Because areas outside the capital region are judged riskier and harder to finance, regional development gaps become entrenched, so the issue threatens national sustainability and calls for a nationwide response.