Kuta Beach, a world-renowned tourist destination in Bali, is facing a critical challenge that threatens its very existence. Over the last 20 years, this iconic shoreline has been steadily shrinking due to severe coastal erosion, raising alarm among locals and authorities alike.
Stretching from Kuta to Seminyak in Badung Regency, the erosion has drastically reduced the once-expansive beachfront, leaving significant portions of the coastline severely impacted. Observations reveal that Kuta Beach’s shoreline is now far narrower than in previous decades, particularly in areas from the Kuta Beach Task Force office to Beachwalk Mall.
To combat this alarming erosion, the Bali-Penida River Basin Agency (BWS Bali-Penida) has launched a conservation project valued at IDR 249 billion. The initiative, set to run from December 2024 to 2026, aims to restore the beach to its original grandeur.
“This work will be carried out in segments, covering areas from Pantai Sekeh, Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak,” said Gede Lanang Sunu Perbawa, head of the Non-Vertical Water Network Unit of BWS Bali-Penida, on Thursday (November 28, 2024).
The conservation plan includes constructing four new breakwaters, modifying one existing structure, and replenishing sand in key segments. Sand replenishment will occur in three main areas: from Sekeh Beach to Jerman Beach, near Discovery Kartika Plaza to Pullman Legian Hotel, and from Double Six Seminyak to Petitenget Beach. Some parts of the beach that remain in good condition will be left untouched.
Lanang emphasized the importance of selecting the right material for sand replenishment.
“After thorough studies and surveys, we found that the sand off Jimbaran’s coast closely matches Kuta’s grayish-white texture. It differs from Nusa Dua’s golden-white sand, making it ideal for this project,” he explained. The sand will be sourced approximately 7 kilometers offshore from Jimbaran.
Danang Raditya, the project manager, acknowledged the logistical challenges of working in a bustling tourist area like Kuta. “Adjustments to working hours will be made to minimize disruptions. We’ve also prepared both land and sea routes for material transport to avoid congestion,” he said.
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Coordination with local authorities and communities will ensure the project progresses without hindering daily activities, particularly in the fishing and tourism sectors.
For many locals, the changes to Kuta Beach are striking. According to I Wayan Sirna, head of the Kuta Beach Task Force, the shoreline was once a sprawling expanse, extending nearly 30 meters inland two decades ago.
“Now, during high tide, only about 2 meters of beach remain, with waves often reaching pedestrian areas,” he remarked.
Komang Alit Ardana, chief of Kuta’s customary village, underlined the urgency of the conservation project to preserve the beach as an iconic symbol of Bali’s tourism.
“We’ve been coordinating with the authorities to ensure swift action. Without intervention, Kuta Beach’s identity as a tourism icon will vanish,” he warned.
Despite the challenges, Ardana assured that surfers would continue to enjoy the beach, as the best waves are located in the northern section. However, he stressed that the alarming rate of erosion necessitates immediate and comprehensive efforts to save Kuta Beach for future generations.
The stakes are high, but the ongoing conservation project represents a critical step toward ensuring that Kuta Beach remains a jewel of Bali’s tourism industry.
