Should the large-scale demolitions of tourist facilities built in violation continue? This is one of the most pressing topics being debated by Balinese politicians, officials, and business representatives.
After the demolition of 48 buildings began on Bingin Beach in Uluwatu in July, two other popular resorts, Balangan and Melasti, are now at risk. However, authorities are now considering how such punitive measures will affect tourist flows and the investment climate.
According to the Department of Public Works and Housing of Badung Regency (PUPR), around 20 violations were identified on Balangan Beach, and 8 on Melasti. These are mainly beach clubs and restaurants. The inspection revealed that dozens of facilities were built in protected zones and on state land, and many operate without the necessary licenses.
The Tourism Department of the district confirmed: 17 business owners in Balangan failed to present land certificates. Warnings have already been sent to violators, but final demolition orders have not yet been signed.
Badung Regent Wayan Adi Arnawa emphasizes that a decision will be made after analyzing the consequences.
“We will study the extent of violations and the socio-environmental impact. The situation is different from Bingin,” he said.
Not everyone in power agrees with the harsh approach. The Deputy Speaker of the Badung Regency Parliament, I Nyoman Gede Wiradana, believes that mass demolitions will scare away investors, so authorities should seek softer solutions. Deputy Made Sudria holds a similar position. In his view, violations should be addressed, but businesses should not be completely shut down.
Such questions were not raised at Bingin, and no doubts were voiced. Thus, on July 21, a major dismantling of buildings built in violation began there, even though they had become legendary and beloved by many tourists. From the authorities' perspective, this was a serious demonstration of determination to act according to the law. Meanwhile, local workers lost clients and income, and tourists lost one of their beach spots. Not many are willing to visit places where construction equipment is breaking up concrete.
Moreover, the work turned out to be unsafe. On Monday, August 18, a fire erupted at Bingin. Sparks that scattered when workers dismantled metal structures are the preliminary cause according to reports.
Authorities now need to decide whether to repeat this scenario in Balangan and Melasti or to sit down at the negotiation table and reach a mutually beneficial agreement with business representatives.
Sources: NusaBali, BaliExpress.
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