【Bali Traffic Improvement Plan Part 2】Sea Highway Construction Has Begun

Bottom Line First: The ‘sea highway’ that Bali’s government has started building is actually an 8-meter-wide dedicated lane for electric buses/trams built along the coastline (not a highway for regular cars). It’s planned to connect Gilimanuk, Denpasar, Tabanan, Kuta, Padangbai, and Tanah Lot, aiming to divert road congestion between the airport and popular beaches. The first phase focuses on beach restoration and erosion control. It’s still under construction and not yet open, so for now, traveling by road via private car or ride-hailing remains the main option.

Bali, a captivating travel destination, draws countless visitors each year to explore its stunning beaches, rich culture, and unique natural landscapes. However, as tourism continues to grow, the island faces increasingly severe traffic congestion. To address this, the Bali government has proposed an innovative plan: building a sea highway connecting Ngurah Rai International Airport to the island’s popular beaches.

The existing sea road in Bali is open to regular cars.

Plan Overview

The so-called ‘sea highway’ is actually a coastal tram line designed to provide a fast and convenient transit option connecting the airport to popular tourist areas in western Bali, such as Canggu and Kuta. This plan aims to significantly cut travel time for visitors while easing pressure on existing roads.

Detailed Engineering Plan

This sea highway isn’t a conventional road but a dedicated lane for electric buses or trams, built along existing beaches. According to Surya Suamba, head of the Badung Regency Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency (PUPR), the plan prioritizes beach restoration first, followed by the construction of an 8-meter-wide road exclusively for electric buses or trams.

The project is now in the spatial adjustment phase. The sea highway will connect the following locations:

• Gilimanuk – Denpasar
• Gilimanuk – Tabanan
• Tabanan – Kuta
• Kuta – Padang Bai
• Kuta – Tanah Lot

These highways will significantly improve traffic flow and infrastructure in Bali, offering more convenient transportation options for both locals and tourists.

First Phase of Construction

In the first phase of the project, the focus will be on beach rehabilitation and restoration. This includes replenishing sections of sand lost to erosion and ensuring the beach’s stability. Following that, a dedicated electric bus or tram route will be built, providing a fast and eco-friendly transportation option.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

While this plan is promising, it also faces several challenges. Coastal erosion is one of them; to address this, the construction team will introduce the latest technologies and materials to ensure the beach’s long-term stability. Additionally, the impact of tides and waves must be considered, and a series of measures will be implemented during construction to mitigate the effects of these natural phenomena.

Environmental Impact Assessment

Any large-scale construction project inevitably impacts the local environment. To address this, the Badung Regency government will conduct a comprehensive environmental impact assessment to ensure no permanent damage is done to the local ecosystem. At the same time, various measures will be taken to protect the marine ecosystem, such as creating artificial reefs and seagrass beds.

Social and Economic Impact

This plan will not only enhance the tourist experience but also bring economic benefits to local communities. With improved transportation, more visitors will be able to easily reach all corners of Bali, thereby boosting the local tourism industry and related sectors.

Alternative Options

While the sea highway plan is highly appealing, traditional roads remain a viable alternative. The Badung Regency government is also considering different options, including building more conventional roads along the beach. Each option has its pros and cons, and the government will make a final decision based on actual conditions and technical feasibility.

Construction Timeline

According to current plans, the first phase of the project is expected to be completed by 2025. The entire project will be carried out in multiple stages, each with specific goals and timelines. The government aims to finish all construction within the next few years, providing more convenient transportation options for both tourists and local residents.

Funding and Budget

This ambitious plan is estimated to cost around 90 billion Indonesian rupiah. Funding will primarily come from government allocations, while also seeking collaboration and investment from private enterprises. Proper allocation and effective management of funds will be key to the project’s success.

Government Support and Collaboration

The Badung Regency government has given strong support to this plan and is actively seeking partnerships with private enterprises. This collaborative model not only ensures the smooth progress of the project but also promotes the overall development of Bali.

Impact on Tourists

For travelers, this plan will bring numerous conveniences. Both international and domestic tourists will be able to quickly reach Bali’s major attractions via this sea highway. Additionally, the introduction of electric buses or trams will enhance the overall travel experience, allowing visitors to enjoy Bali’s beauty in greater comfort.

Future Outlook

With the advancement of the sea highway project, Bali is set to welcome a more convenient and modern transportation network. This will not only help alleviate current traffic congestion but also lay a solid foundation for Bali’s long-term development. In the future, the government plans to further expand this network, connecting more tourist attractions to enhance the overall travel experience.

Conclusion

Bali’s sea highway project is an innovative and promising initiative that not only improves local traffic conditions but also brings new opportunities for the tourism industry and local economy. As the project gradually progresses, we look forward to seeing a more convenient and prosperous Bali in the future.

Further reading: 【One of Bali’s Transportation Improvement Plans】Bali Light Rail to Begin Construction in September

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the sea highway?
2. • The sea highway is essentially a coastal road designed for electric buses or trams, offering a convenient transportation option.
3. What is the main purpose of this plan?
4. • The main goal is to reduce travel time for tourists, alleviate traffic congestion, and enhance the overall travel experience.
5. When will construction begin?
6. • The first phase of construction is expected to start in 2025.
7. Will this plan have an environmental impact?
8. • The government will conduct a comprehensive environmental impact assessment and take measures to protect the local ecosystem.
9. How will this project be funded?
10. • Funding will primarily come from government allocations, with efforts to seek collaboration and investment from private enterprises.