Controversy Erupts Over Glass Elevator Construction on Bali’s Iconic Kelingking Beach
A soaring 182-metre glass elevator under construction at Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida, near Bali, has sparked a fierce debate between tourism development advocates and environmental conservationists. The beach, famous worldwide for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters shaped somewhat like a T-rex, is recognized as one of the most beautiful in the world. However, the ongoing glass lift project, which has been underway for more than 18 months, has now been put on hold by Bali’s provincial government pending a review of its permits.
Suspension of Construction and Permit Controversy
Authorities suspended the lift’s construction earlier this week as concerns emerged that the project had not obtained the necessary approvals from the correct government bodies. Bali’s Regional Spatial Planning, Assets and Licensing committee revealed that the developer had sought permits from Klungkung Regency rather than the district or provincial levels, raising questions about the legitimacy and thoroughness of the approval process.
I Made Supartha, head of the committee, emphasized that such a significant project requires oversight and environmental assessments from provincial and central government, particularly given the fragile cliffside location. “According to spatial planning concepts,” he said, “that’s not really the right place for a glass lift.” Authorities are now demanding explanations from the developers and local government agencies involved.
Local and Tourist Reactions: Divided Opinions
The project has deeply divided opinion among residents, tourists, and environmental advocates. Many visitors expressed dismay at the intrusion into the natural landscape and the disruption of what they consider a pristine photographic and cultural icon. “It’s the most beautiful landscape we’ve ever seen but this elevator ruins it,” commented Pauline, a tourist from France. Others echoed concerns about environmental damage and the eroding of Bali’s authentic cultural and natural character.
Conversely, some local business owners and workers hope the lift will improve access to the beach and increase tourist traffic, potentially boosting sales and the local economy. Kadek Yartini, who runs a small restaurant near the cliff top, expressed optimism that the project might attract more visitors once completed.
Environmental and Cultural Concerns
Environmental groups have long raised alarms about the potential ecological risks that come with such infrastructure. Made Krisna Dinata of the environmental NGO Walhi Bali warned that the landscape is “extremely fragile and vulnerable,” and that installing a 180-metre glass lift on the cliffside risks irreversible environmental impacts, including erosion and long-term habitat disruption.
The issue is part of a broader struggle over the pace and scale of development in Bali, an island grappling with overtourism and environmental degradation. Recently, Bali experienced deadly floods attributed in part to unchecked construction and land-use changes, leading to a moratorium on new developments in agricultural areas.
Senator Niluh Djelantik, an independent national representative based in Bali, voiced her heartbreak over the situation: “The beauty is being taken away. There’s nowhere else in the world like here.” She criticized the prioritization of commercial interests over community wellbeing and urged authorities to focus on essential infrastructure such as clean water, schools, and healthcare instead of flashy tourism projects.
Uncertain Future and Broader Implications
With construction now suspended, the fate of the glass elevator remains uncertain. If the project is ultimately cancelled, questions linger about who would be responsible for dismantling the partially erected structure and the timeline for doing so.
This controversy highlights the ongoing tension in Bali’s booming tourism industry: how to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. With the island expecting over 6.3 million foreign visitors this year, surpassing prior records, regulatory oversight and sustainable planning are becoming more critical than ever.
As Bali continues to attract global travelers enchanted by its natural beauty and rich culture, the current debate around the glass elevator at Kelingking Beach serves as a potent reminder of the delicate dance between progress and preservation on this beloved island destination.
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