The massive sea wall and cliff conservation project at Bali’s iconic Uluwatu Temple is approaching its final stages, with 83% completion reported and a scheduled finish in early February 2025. The project, initially aimed at protecting the limestone cliffs from erosion and potential collapse, has sparked significant controversy among local communities, environmentalists, and surf enthusiasts.
Project Status and Scope
The construction work has now reached the critical area directly beneath Uluwatu Temple, with 392 meters remaining of the total 1-kilometer revetment-sea wall length. The project includes:
- Installation of 2,800 tetrapods as wave breakers
- Cliff reinforcement using shotcrete and wire mesh
- Construction of access roads for maintenance
- Treatment of cliff cracks and cavities
Environmental Impact and Concerns
Recent developments have raised serious environmental concerns:
- A new section of limestone cliff near Uluwatu Temple has recently collapsed
- The reef structure, crucial for dugongs and sharks, faces potential damage
- Construction activities have resulted in limestone pollution in the surrounding waters
Controversy and Investigation
The Bali Attorney General’s Office launched an investigation in October 2024 following complaints about:
- Lack of proper environmental impact assessment (AMDAL)
- Insufficient community consultation
- Unauthorized dumping of excavated materials into the ocean
Impact on Tourism and Surfing
The project has generated significant concern among the surfing community and tourists, with fears about:
- Potential damage to world-famous surf breaks
- Changes to the natural coastal landscape
- Limited transparency regarding the project’s full scope
The project, while aimed at preservation, continues to divide opinion between government officials, who maintain its necessity for religious and safety purposes, and environmental advocates who worry about its long-term impact on Bali’s natural and cultural heritage.
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