Bali Halts Controversial Glass Lift Project Amid Environmental Concerns
In This Article
HIGHLIGHTS
- Bali authorities have suspended the construction of a 182-meter glass lift on Kelingking Beach due to environmental concerns and lack of permits.
- The project, led by China Kaishi Group, faced backlash from locals and tourists who fear it will damage the natural beauty of the iconic "T-Rex cliff."
- The lift was intended to ease access to the beach, but critics argue it could increase risks of swimming accidents due to easier access.
- The $12 million project is part of a broader trend of growing Chinese investments in Bali, including a $3 billion airport project.
- Local officials emphasize the need for sustainable development, urging alternatives like repairing existing stairs instead of new constructions.
Bali authorities have temporarily halted the construction of a controversial glass lift on the picturesque Kelingking Beach, following widespread public outcry over its potential environmental impact and the absence of necessary permits. The 182-meter lift, spearheaded by Chinese developer China Kaishi Group, was designed to facilitate easier access to the beach, renowned for its striking "T-Rex" cliff formation.
Local and Tourist Backlash
The project has sparked significant backlash from both locals and tourists, who argue that the construction threatens the natural beauty of one of Bali's most iconic landscapes. Images of the initial lift shafts cutting through the cliff have gone viral, prompting criticism that the development accelerates erosion and detracts from the area's allure. "Tourists come to Nusa Penida to enjoy the beautiful panorama, not the lifts," lamented local resident Made Sediana.
Environmental and Safety Concerns
Environmentalists and local officials have voiced concerns about the potential increase in swimming accidents, as easier access to the beach could lead more visitors to ignore warnings about dangerous swimming conditions. Despite the project's promise to boost tourism, critics argue that it undermines the island's commitment to sustainable development. Bali senator Niluh Djelantik emphasized the risks, stating, "Enjoy Bali's beauty wisely; don't create access that seems to be leading tourists to the gates of disaster."
Chinese Investment and Development
The lift project, with an estimated cost of $12 million, is part of a broader trend of Chinese investment in Bali's infrastructure. This includes a significant $3 billion investment by ChangYe Construction Group in a new airport. However, the lift's suspension highlights the tension between development and environmental preservation, with local authorities urging a focus on repairing existing infrastructure like the beach stairs.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The suspension of the glass lift project at Kelingking Beach underscores the ongoing debate over sustainable tourism development in Bali. As authorities review the project's compliance with environmental regulations, the outcome could set a precedent for future developments on the island. If the project is permanently halted, it may encourage a shift towards more environmentally friendly tourism solutions, such as enhancing existing pathways. Conversely, if construction resumes, it could signal a prioritization of economic growth over environmental concerns, potentially leading to further public dissent. The situation also highlights the broader implications of foreign investment in Bali, as local stakeholders balance economic benefits with the preservation of the island's natural heritage.
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Bali Halts Controversial Glass Lift Project Amid Environmental Concerns
In This Article
HIGHLIGHTS
- Bali authorities have suspended the construction of a 182-meter glass lift on Kelingking Beach due to environmental concerns and lack of permits.
- The project, led by China Kaishi Group, faced backlash from locals and tourists who fear it will damage the natural beauty of the iconic "T-Rex cliff."
- The lift was intended to ease access to the beach, but critics argue it could increase risks of swimming accidents due to easier access.
- The $12 million project is part of a broader trend of growing Chinese investments in Bali, including a $3 billion airport project.
- Local officials emphasize the need for sustainable development, urging alternatives like repairing existing stairs instead of new constructions.
Bali authorities have temporarily halted the construction of a controversial glass lift on the picturesque Kelingking Beach, following widespread public outcry over its potential environmental impact and the absence of necessary permits. The 182-meter lift, spearheaded by Chinese developer China Kaishi Group, was designed to facilitate easier access to the beach, renowned for its striking "T-Rex" cliff formation.
Local and Tourist Backlash
The project has sparked significant backlash from both locals and tourists, who argue that the construction threatens the natural beauty of one of Bali's most iconic landscapes. Images of the initial lift shafts cutting through the cliff have gone viral, prompting criticism that the development accelerates erosion and detracts from the area's allure. "Tourists come to Nusa Penida to enjoy the beautiful panorama, not the lifts," lamented local resident Made Sediana.
Environmental and Safety Concerns
Environmentalists and local officials have voiced concerns about the potential increase in swimming accidents, as easier access to the beach could lead more visitors to ignore warnings about dangerous swimming conditions. Despite the project's promise to boost tourism, critics argue that it undermines the island's commitment to sustainable development. Bali senator Niluh Djelantik emphasized the risks, stating, "Enjoy Bali's beauty wisely; don't create access that seems to be leading tourists to the gates of disaster."
Chinese Investment and Development
The lift project, with an estimated cost of $12 million, is part of a broader trend of Chinese investment in Bali's infrastructure. This includes a significant $3 billion investment by ChangYe Construction Group in a new airport. However, the lift's suspension highlights the tension between development and environmental preservation, with local authorities urging a focus on repairing existing infrastructure like the beach stairs.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The suspension of the glass lift project at Kelingking Beach underscores the ongoing debate over sustainable tourism development in Bali. As authorities review the project's compliance with environmental regulations, the outcome could set a precedent for future developments on the island. If the project is permanently halted, it may encourage a shift towards more environmentally friendly tourism solutions, such as enhancing existing pathways. Conversely, if construction resumes, it could signal a prioritization of economic growth over environmental concerns, potentially leading to further public dissent. The situation also highlights the broader implications of foreign investment in Bali, as local stakeholders balance economic benefits with the preservation of the island's natural heritage.
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