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The rapid pace of development to accommodate the island’s growth has come at an environmental cost.
It is now being reported that the locals are pushing for a two-year moratorium on hotel construction. (Photo: Shutterstock)
There has been an ongoing concern surrounding mass tourism on the small Indonesian island of Bali. The huge influx of tourists to the island has contributed massively to its growth in recent years, providing jobs and helping the local communities generate income. This rapid pace of development to accommodate the island’s growth has come at an environmental cost. It is now being reported that the locals are pushing for a two-year moratorium on hotel construction. They believe it will help put environmental damage into check and preserve the natural surroundings. These anxious locals call for a calmer yesteryear similar to residents in European hotspots Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca or Venice.
In response, Indonesian authorities already announced certain plans to help promote the local habitat. These plans included a two-year pause on building hotels, villas and nightclubs. However, these plans are yet to be confirmed by the new government. One of the more affected locations in Bali is Canggu, a resort village on the south coast of the Indonesian island. Before it was discovered by foreign surfers decades ago, this southern Balinese beachside village was a quiet location. Perched on the Indian Ocean, Canggu was once dotted with just padi fields. Now the place bristles with hotels and lodgings. Its streets are clogged with cars, scooters and trucks.
Kadek Candrawati, a 23-year-old local, expressed concerns over the environment taking second place due to the rapid development. As per multiple outlets, she said, “Canggu is now busier… its tranquillity and greenery are gradually disappearing.” Candrawati owns a local motorcycle rental service. Speaking more about the need for sustainability, she said “The government and the community need to work together to ensure that Bali stays green, sustainable, and the local culture is preserved. I hope that Bali’s tourism can continue to grow, while maintaining a balance between development and the environment.”
Bali’s beauty includes a lush canvas of rainforests, padi fields and surf beaches. The island also houses some premium resorts, resulting in frequent tourist visits. It is still far from certain if the new Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto would consider curbing the income Bali generates from tourism. The previous government had made claims of implementing a tourism-related construction freeze. A light rail system was also promised to ease the traffic situation on the Indonesian island. However, Prabowo has yet to comment on the plans. It has raised doubts that he is considering arresting Bali’s development.
