Bali Authorities Suspend Construction of Controversial Glass Lift on Kelingking Beach Cliffside
Bali, Indonesia – Local authorities in Bali have ordered an immediate halt to the construction of a 182-meter (597-foot) glass elevator on a prominent cliff at Kelingking Beach, one of the island’s most photographed natural landmarks. Developed by the Chinese company China Kaishi Group, the project was designed to provide visitors with easier access to the beach below. However, it has faced widespread backlash from residents, tourists, and environmentalists concerned about its impact on the fragile landscape.
The lift’s partially constructed shafts, which cut into the limestone formation famously known as the “T-Rex cliff” due to its distinctive shape, quickly went viral on social media, sparking outrage among locals and visitors. Critics argue that the installation disrupts the natural beauty of the area and may accelerate erosion on the already vulnerable cliffside.
In addition to environmental objections, authorities discovered that the project had proceeded without obtaining the necessary permits, prompting the suspension order. A spokesperson from Bali’s Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) emphasized the importance of adhering to regulations to protect the environment and local heritage.
Local residents expressed disappointment over the development. Made Sediana, a Bali resident, told local media, “It’s a shame that the beautiful view of Kelingking Beach has been destroyed by the lift project. Tourists come here to enjoy the panorama, not to see glass lifts cutting through the cliff.” Another commenter remarked, “Tourists come to Bali for its natural environment because their own countries have enough high-rise buildings. This just makes it worse.”
Bali senator Niluh Djelantik, an outspoken critic of the project, highlighted the potential risks posed by such infrastructure. “Long before this lift was built, we voiced our opposition. The risks to the environment and safety are too great,” she said. In a Facebook statement prior to the suspension, she urged, “Enjoy Bali’s beauty wisely; don’t create access that seems to be leading tourists to the gates of disaster.”
The suspension’s duration remains uncertain as authorities review the project’s compliance and environmental impact. The $12 million lift was intended to significantly shorten the complicated and strenuous hike down to the beach, which currently takes between 45 to 60 minutes on foot. The return climb can extend to two hours over steep terrain.
Some community members have called for repairs and improvements to the existing stairs rather than constructing new, intrusive developments. Others raised concerns that easier access could increase the likelihood of swimming accidents. Kelingking Beach is known for its rough waves and narrow shoreline, prompting swimming bans that are frequently ignored, leading to fatalities and injuries.
The controversy comes amid growing Chinese investment in Bali. Another major Chinese firm, ChangYe Construction Group, is involved in a $3 billion joint venture to build Bali’s second airport alongside Indonesian partner PT BIBU Panji Sakti.
As Bali continues to attract increasing numbers of tourists, debates over balancing economic development and environmental preservation remain critical. The suspension of the Kelingking Beach glass lift underscores ongoing tensions between modernization projects and conservation priorities on the island.
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