Bali Authorities Suspend Construction of Controversial Glass Lift on Iconic Cliff
Bali officials have halted the development of a 182-metre (597 feet) glass elevator being built on the cliffside of Kelingking Beach, one of the Indonesian island’s most photographed natural landmarks. The project, initiated by Chinese developer China Kaishi Group, aimed to improve tourist access to the beach but has encountered significant public backlash due to environmental and safety concerns.
The glass lift, designed to transport visitors down the cliff, was intended to enhance the visitor experience by reducing the strenuous hike required to reach the beach. However, images of the initial lift shafts carved into the famous “T-Rex cliff” — named for its unique shape — rapidly circulated on social media, provoking outrage from both locals and tourists. Critics argue that the installation not only undermines the natural beauty of the area but may also exacerbate cliff erosion.
Compounding the controversy is the discovery that the project proceeded without obtaining the necessary permits from local authorities. As a result, the Bali Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) issued a formal suspension of the construction activities. The duration of this suspension remains uncertain.
Local residents and environmental advocates voiced their disappointment and opposition. Made Sediana, a resident, expressed to the Bali Sun, “It’s a shame that the beautiful view of Kelingking Beach has been destroyed by the lift project. Tourists come to Nusa Penida to enjoy the beautiful panorama, not the lifts.” Supporters of the suspension point out that many tourists seek Bali’s natural environment precisely because it offers an escape from urban development seen in their home countries.
Bali senator Niluh Djelantik has been a vocal critic of the glass lift project from the outset, emphasizing the inherent risks posed by such infrastructure. In a Facebook post prior to the suspension, she warned, “Enjoy Bali’s beauty wisely; don’t create access that seems to be leading tourists to the gates of disaster.”
Currently, visitors must undertake a challenging trek that takes between 45 minutes and two hours—down and back up a steep trail—to reach Kelingking Beach. Some commentators suggested that repairing the existing staircases would be a safer and more environmentally responsible measure than constructing new “vanity projects.” The project has been reported to cost approximately $12 million (£5.8 million).
Safety concerns also extend beyond environmental degradation. Although Kelingking Beach offers stunning ocean views, authorities do not permit swimming due to dangerous waves and a narrow coastline. Despite warnings, swimming incidents and accidents are not uncommon. Critics fear that easier access facilitated by the lift could lead to increased accidents and injuries.
The development of the glass lift occurs amid a surge in Chinese investments in Bali, such as the $3 billion partnership involving Chinese firm ChangYe Construction Group to build Bali’s second airport. However, the backlash against the cliffside lift highlights growing tensions between infrastructure development and conservation priorities on the island.
At this time, Bali authorities have not announced when construction might resume or if the project will be modified to address the concerns raised. The suspension marks a significant victory for environmental advocates seeking to preserve Bali’s unique natural landscapes against intrusive development.
Background
- Location: Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia
- Developer: China Kaishi Group
- Project Cost: Approximately $12 million (£5.8 million)
- Controversy: Environmental damage, lack of permits, potential safety risks
- Current Status: Construction suspended pending review
As Bali continues to attract millions of visitors annually, balancing tourism infrastructure and environmental preservation remains a critical challenge for local authorities and communities alike.
Add a comment