Bali's coastline is rapidly changing. Erosion is washing away beaches and cliffs, and the ocean is reclaiming land. Governor Wayan Koster stated that the island is losing territory — and if urgent measures aren't taken, the losses will continue.
Since 2018, according to him, Bali has lost about 40 km² of land. The island's area has decreased from 5,636 to 5,590 km². This is only 0.1% of Indonesia's total territory, but for a densely populated region with high tourist demand, every lost hectare matters.
The most significant erosion is recorded on the southern coast. There, the beaches are particularly vulnerable to the impact of the waves. Not only the sand is disappearing — the ecosystem is being destroyed, and the region's tourist appeal is diminishing.
Koster sought support from the Parliamentary Commission V and the PDIP faction, proposing the development of a regional law against erosion. "We discussed this issue and are preparing a legal basis to combat abrasion," he said.
According to satellite research, from 2016 to 2021, Bali's coastline receded by 6.05 km — from 668.64 to 662.59 km. The average retreat rate is 1.21 meters per year. Without regular sand replenishment and the installation of soft protective structures, the beaches will continue to disappear, especially during high wave seasons.
Sources: jawapos, baliexpress
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