Bali Govt Halts Kelingking Beach Glass Elevator Project

TheIndonesia.co - Bali authorities have suspended construction of a 182-meter glass elevator at the cliff of Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida, Klungkung District, citing environmental concerns and regulatory violations.

I Made Supartha, head of a special committee on spatial affairs, assets, and permits at the Bali legislature, said the project violated Law No. 26 of 2007 on Spatial Planning.

“The Bali Municipal Police will ensure that no construction activities continue here,” Supartha said on Friday, as quoted by Antara.

He noted that the project lacked multiple permits, including those for disaster mitigation and work safety, and failed to incorporate the Bali-style design required under regional regulations.

Bali Municipal Police officer I Dewa Nyoman Rai Dharmadi confirmed the site’s closure followed input from provincial agencies.

A regional report found the project owner had not met work safety standards and violated administrative rules by failing to submit technical blueprints or apply for an elevator permit.

"The police line must remain closed. Removing it without authorization is a criminal offense. We will report any continued construction or tampering,” Dharmadi said, directing local officials to monitor the site.

Project owner PT Bangun Nusa Properti defended the development. Director I Komang Suantara said the project, supported by a Chinese investor, was legally permitted in 2023 and had completed required site assessments.

The investor contributed Rp200 billion, with Rp60 billion allocated for the elevator, aimed at boosting regional revenue and creating jobs.

Suantara added that his company respects the provincial suspension and will compile all necessary documents and permits.

The 182-meter glass elevator, linked to a 64-meter bridge when finished, has stirred public debate over potential environmental harm and its visual impact on Kelingking Beach’s iconic cliffside view.