ICT Infrastructure Analysis and E-Readiness for Smart City Development in Nepal

Abstract

Background: Smart-city development in Nepal is gaining attention, but implementation remains challenging due to gaps in ICT infrastructure, digital readiness, institutional capacity, and awareness. This study assesses Nepal's ICT infrastructure and e-readiness to identify key barriers and opportunities for smart-city development.

Methods: A qualitative approach combining observation, survey, expert review, group discussion, and semi-structured interviews was employed. A total of 20 interviews were conducted with government officials, municipal representatives, and IT and engineering professionals to assess ICT infrastructure, technological readiness, IoT awareness, and smart-city feasibility.

Results: The findings show that 92% of respondents consider smart-city development feasible in Nepal, while 90% believe it can improve quality of life. However, existing technological infrastructure remains inadequate, and 80% of respondents were unaware of IoT frameworks. Major barriers include insufficient political commitment, low computer literacy and awareness, limited Public–Private Partnership (PPP), reluctance toward technology adoption, and limited knowledge of IoT and e-Government systems. Smartphone use, internet connectivity, digital payments, and ICT-enabled services were identified as important foundations.

Conclusion: Nepal has made progress in ICT infrastructure and connectivity, but further improvements in digital skills, cybersecurity, interoperability, institutional capacity, citizen awareness, and government commitment are needed for sustainable, citizen-centric smart-city development.

Novelty: This study provides an integrated assessment of Nepal's ICT infrastructure and e-readiness by linking stakeholder perspectives with key ICT indicators and identifying technological, institutional, human, policy, security, and awareness-related gaps affecting smart-city implementation.