Bali Suspends Controversial Glass Lift Construction at Iconic Cliffside
Authorities in Bali have halted the construction of a 182-meter (597-foot) glass elevator on the cliffside of Kelingking Beach, one of the Indonesian island’s most photographed natural landmarks. The project, led by the Chinese developer China Kaishi Group, drew widespread backlash due to concerns over environmental damage and the absence of necessary permits.
The lift was intended to provide easier access for tourists traveling down the steep cliff to the beach. However, its installation has sparked outrage among local residents and visitors alike, who argue that the construction mars the natural beauty of the area and could accelerate erosion of the fragile cliff formation. The cliff, known locally as the "T-Rex cliff" for its distinctive shape, is a popular destination on Nusa Penida island, celebrated for its dramatic views and pristine coastline.
Photos showing the initial stages of the lift’s installation—specifically the shafts being cut into the cliff face—quickly went viral on social media, intensifying public criticism. Many expressed disappointment that the project would interfere with the natural landscape that draws tourists to the region. Made Sediana, a local resident, remarked that tourists come to the area to enjoy the unspoiled panorama, not man-made structures like lifts.
The project carried an estimated cost of $12 million (approximately £5.8 million). Currently, reaching Kelingking Beach involves a challenging hike down a steep and sometimes treacherous trail that takes between 45 to 60 minutes. The return journey uphill can take up to two hours, requiring a fair degree of physical fitness.
Some members of the public and officials suggested that funds might be better allocated toward repairing the existing stairways rather than investing in what they described as “vanity projects.” Others voiced concern that the ease of access provided by the lift could lead to an increase in swimming accidents at the beach, where strong waves and a narrow shoreline make swimming unsafe. Despite warnings, several incidents involving injuries and deaths have occurred as tourists attempt to swim in these dangerous conditions.
Bali Senator Niluh Djelantik was an outspoken critic of the lift project. She emphasized that opposition had been voiced well before construction began, citing significant environmental risks. In a social media post prior to the suspension announcement, she urged visitors to appreciate Bali’s natural beauty responsibly and cautioned against developments that could threaten it.
The local government’s decision to suspend the project came after discovering that necessary permits had not been secured, adding a legal dimension to the growing public disapproval. It remains unclear how long the suspension will last or under what conditions construction might resume.
This incident comes amid increasing Chinese investment in Bali’s infrastructure. Notably, Chinese firm ChangYe Construction Group has committed around $3 billion to the development of Bali’s second airport through a joint venture with local companies. While such investments promise economic growth, they have also sparked debates about preserving the island’s environmental heritage and cultural identity.
As Bali grapples with rapid tourism growth and the pressures of modern development, balancing infrastructure improvements with environmental conservation remains a critical challenge. The suspension of the Kelingking Beach glass lift project represents a contentious but significant moment in this ongoing dialogue.
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