Indonesia to Introduce Water Taxis in Bali to Mitigate Traffic Congestion
In an effort to address the increasingly severe traffic congestion on Bali, the Indonesian government has announced plans to launch water taxi services across the resort island. The initiative aims to provide tourists and residents with an alternative mode of transportation, particularly between Ngurah Rai International Airport and popular destinations such as Canggu.
Lollan Andy Sutomo Panjaitan, Secretary of the Directorate General of Sea Transportation at Indonesia’s Ministry of Transportation, revealed the plans during a press conference held in Jakarta. He highlighted that traffic conditions, especially on key routes connecting the airport to tourist hotspots, have worsened considerably due to the rapid growth in visitor numbers and vehicle use.
“Our objective is to reduce congestion, allowing tourists to travel more efficiently. For instance, the water taxi service would enable passengers to reach Canggu directly from the airport without enduring long hours in traffic jams,” Panjaitan explained. He also emphasized that this new transport mode would be fully integrated with Bali’s existing air and sea transportation systems, providing a seamless travel experience.
Currently, the government is conducting comprehensive reviews to ensure the project’s viability. These include surveys, technical analyses, and feasibility studies focused on operational logistics and infrastructure requirements. In parallel, authorities are evaluating the potential development of an MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and LRT (Light Rail Transit) system to further bolster Bali’s public transportation network.
“In the long term, these transportation alternatives will significantly improve the efficiency and sustainability of Bali’s tourism industry,” Panjaitan noted.
Importantly, the project developers are taking into consideration the social and cultural aspects intrinsic to Balinese life. This includes strict respect for local customs, religious sites, and regulatory policies to avoid disruptions to the island’s cultural heritage. The ongoing studies aim to ensure that the water taxi system is both environmentally sustainable and culturally harmonious.
Bali, known for its scenic beaches and vibrant tourism sector, has struggled with traffic issues that impact both residents and visitors. Introducing water taxis could provide relief by opening up travel routes via the island’s waterways, thereby alleviating road congestion.
This initiative aligns with Indonesia’s broader efforts to enhance infrastructure and transportation services in tourist regions to support economic growth and improve quality of life. The government’s multi-modal approach reflects a commitment to building a more accessible and sustainable tourism environment.
As the project advances through its planning stages, further detailed announcements are expected regarding operational timelines and service scope. The success of Bali’s water taxi system could serve as a model for other Indonesian tourist destinations facing similar transportation challenges.
Add a comment