Bali Implements Ban on New Hotels and Restaurants Amid Deadly Flooding and Mass Tourism Concerns
After experiencing severe flash flooding that claimed at least 18 lives, the Indonesian island of Bali has announced a ban on the construction of new hotels and restaurants on productive land, particularly rice fields. This decision aims to address growing concerns about the environmental and social impacts of mass tourism and ongoing rapid development on the island.
Severe Flooding and Emergency Response
On 10 September 2025, Bali was struck by its most intense flooding in over a decade. The flooding, prompted by heavy rainfall during the wet season, led authorities to declare a state of emergency. The disaster caused massive damage to homes, infrastructure, and public facilities in Denpasar and surrounding areas, disrupting the lives of thousands of residents.
Environmental experts have warned for years about the consequences of converting agricultural land into commercial and tourism-related developments. They argue that the loss of rice paddies and other productive lands exacerbates flooding risks and other natural hazards.
New Rules to Restrict Land Conversion
In response to the disaster and mounting environmental concerns, Bali’s governor, Wayan Koster, announced new regulations to halt permits for building hotels, restaurants, and other commercial facilities on fertile agricultural land. Governor Koster stated on 14 September 2025 that local officials across Bali had been instructed to stop approving such developments starting this year.
“After handling the floods, we will meet again to ensure no more permits are issued for hotels, restaurants or other facilities on productive land, especially rice fields,” Koster said, emphasizing alignment with Bali’s 100-year development plan. The ban on land conversion for commercial use is expected to take full effect by the end of 2025. Challenges of Mass Tourism and Overdevelopment
Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali’s lush rice terraces and pristine beaches have attracted millions of tourists over the past decades. While tourism has been vital to Bali’s economy, the rapid expansion of hotels and resorts has brought increased traffic congestion, pollution, and social challenges, including complaints about the behavior of visitors.
Concerns about overdevelopment led the Indonesian government to announce a moratorium on new hotel construction last year. However, that moratorium did not fully materialize. The fresh bylaws now reinforce the government’s commitment to sustainable land use and environmental protection.
Climate Change and Environmental Degradation
Indonesia’s meteorological and climate agency warned of an extreme rainy season ahead this year. Flooding in Bali and other parts of Indonesia has been worsened by climate-induced changes, including intensified rainfall patterns caused by global warming. Environmental degradation from deforestation and unmanaged urban expansion are additional factors aggravating flood risks.
Indonesia’s environmental minister, Hanif Faisal Nurofiq, highlighted the importance of the new regulations: “This is also crucial for Bali’s tourism as the recent flooding has drawn serious attention. I actually told the governor last week that I really hope he will immediately stop the land conversions in Bali. This is extremely important.”
The Broader Impact of Climate Crisis on Flooding
Experts note that human-driven climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme rainfall worldwide. Warmer air holds more moisture, leading to heavier downpours and flash floods in many regions across the globe. These changes, combined with local land management practices, have made flooding a more pressing challenge for vulnerable areas like Bali.
Looking Forward
Bali’s move to restrict new commercial developments on agricultural land represents a significant shift toward balancing environmental preservation and tourism growth. As climate risks escalate, the island’s leadership aims to protect its unique landscapes and communities while ensuring the sustainability of its famed tourism industry.
Authorities will continue monitoring the situation closely, working with local stakeholders to implement the new regulations and mitigate future disaster risks as Bali confronts its evolving environmental and social challenges.
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