New Road Project in Bali’s Top Tourism Area Aims to Ease Traffic Congestion
Travelers who have visited Bali are well aware of the island’s notorious traffic congestion, a challenge that affects many popular destinations. Among the hardest hit is the Bukit Peninsula, especially around the Uluwatu area, which frequently experiences severe traffic jams.
In response to these ongoing issues, the Badung Regency Government—responsible for key tourism areas including Uluwatu, Canggu, and Seminyak—has announced plans to develop significant road infrastructure improvements during the current electoral term. These initiatives aim to enhance accessibility, reduce traffic congestion, and improve safety in these busy regions.
Addressing Safety and Congestion on Jalan Goa Gong
One of the focal points is Jalan Goa Gong in Jimbaran, where a rising number of traffic accidents has raised concern. The Regent of Badung, Wayan Adi Arnawa, revealed that efforts are underway to construct a new road to alleviate pressure on this critical route.
Previous plans considered elevating the road near the Goa Gong Temple. However, due to concerns raised by the temple’s caretakers, officials are now exploring an alternative route. This new alignment would run to the left of the temple area, crossing the nearby river, to provide a safer and more efficient passage.
“This new road will serve as a shortcut to Goa Gong, allowing traffic from Pecatu and Ungasan heading to Denpasar to avoid congested sections on the main Uluwatu Highway,” Regent Arnawa explained. The development aims to not only improve traffic flow but also enhance access to the cultural heritage site while addressing frequent accidents in the area.
Collaboration with GWK Cultural Park
The proposed new road will link the South Housing Complex of Udayana University (Unud) with the GWK Cultural Park, an important local landmark. Discussions with GWK management have been positive, with the park administration expressing support for the project.
Regent Arnawa noted, “We will utilize GWK’s assets to build the access road, which will remain publicly accessible, benefitting both tourists and residents.” The cooperation between local authorities and stakeholder organizations highlights a collaborative approach to infrastructure development.
Other Major Infrastructure Projects Underway
The new road near Goa Gong is just one component of a broader plan to improve Bali’s road network. Another highly anticipated project is the West Gatot Subroto Road, designed to dramatically ease congestion between central Canggu and the Tanah Lot area. This development is expected to benefit tourists, locals, and commuters by reducing bottlenecks on the key Denpasar-Gilimanuk commercial route.
Additionally, Bali Governor Wayan Koster has called for work to start on several other critical infrastructure projects, including the Ahmad Yani Underpass and the Tohpati Underpass–Akasia Intersection improvements in the Kuta area. Plans also include constructing flyovers to divert traffic away from congested narrow streets in tourist hotspots such as Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Canggu.
Gradual Improvements Expected
Officials caution that while these infrastructure projects promise long-term relief, the immediate period may see worsening congestion as construction progresses. Tourists and residents alike are advised to plan travel times carefully, especially during morning and evening rush hours, and to allow extra time for airport transfers.
The local government remains committed to completing these vital road developments within the current electoral term to support Bali’s thriving tourism industry and ensure safer, smoother travel for all.
As Bali continues to attract visitors from around the world, these infrastructure advancements represent a crucial step toward preserving the island’s reputation as a premier travel destination while addressing the persistent challenge of traffic congestion.
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