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BINGIN BEACH, BALI – Authorities in Bali have begun demolishing structures along the Bingin Beach cliffside, sparking concerns over transparency, social justice, and the future of the popular surf destination. The demolitions, which commenced on April 29, 2024, targeted dozens of businesses, including villas, cafes, and surf shops, built on what the government claims is protected public land.
The action highlights the ongoing tension between bali’s rapid tourism growth and the need for sustainable development. Since the 1960s, the island’s population has more than doubled, reaching over 4 million residents. Tourist arrivals are projected to reach 6.5 million in 2024, placing important strain on infrastructure and natural resources. The affected area, a roughly 800-meter stretch of coastline in Pecatu village, South Kuta sub-district, Badung regency, has become a hub for surfers and budget travelers.
Local voices have questioned the rationale behind the demolitions.”We understand the need to clean up, but why here, and why like this? We want to make Bali better, but we also want social justice,” stated a local resident, whose name was not instantly available. The demolitions follow the government’s decision to abandon a proposed moratorium on tourism development, instead opting for stricter enforcement of existing regulations. However, environmental advocacy group Walhi Bali argues that enforcement has been inconsistent.
“From our research, there are many other developments across Bali lacking permits and environmental assessments,” said Ida Bagus arya Yoga Bharata, a researcher with walhi Bali. “The inconsistency highlights the slow and weak governance in Bali’s development planning.” Walhi Bali specifically cited several large-scale hotel projects in the Nusa Dua area that have allegedly bypassed proper environmental impact assessments.
I Dewa Nyoman Rai darmadi, head of Bali’s Public Order Agency (Satpol PP), dismissed suggestions that the demolitions were intended to clear land for luxury resorts. “That’s a hoax,” he stated. Darmadi emphasized the safety concerns stemming from the concentration of businesses on the unstable cliffside, and reiterated that the land is designated as public space and not for commercial use. He confirmed that over 60 structures were targeted in the initial phase of the operation.
despite assurances,uncertainty remains.Bali governor Wayan Koster indicated the area will be redeveloped, stating, “Once it’s renovated, it will become an attraction – whether for surfers or something else.” He added that the redevelopment is expected to benefit the local community, but provided no specific details regarding the planned improvements or community involvement.
Local business owners and residents fear displacement and the loss of Bingin’s unique character. Semadhi, a long-time resident and surf instructor, expressed cautious optimism. “If they are going to do it, then maybe we can do it properly this time, a new beginning. But
