The Klungkung Regency authorities have embarked on a major project to widen the road to two of Nusa Penida Island's top attractions - Broken Beach and Angel Billabong. The previously narrow five-meter road, which often caused difficulties for tourists, will be upgraded to a comfortable highway with drainage systems. This will also address the issue of flooding in the area during the rainy season.
"This is more than just a repair - it's an investment in the future of tourism in Nusa Penida," said I Made Jati Laksana, head of the local Public Works Agency. He noted that the road's width will increase from 5 to 9 meters, with 8 meters dedicated to the road surface and 50 cm on each side for drainage.
The reconstructed section is only 1 km long, covering the stretch between Broken Beach and Angel Billabong. Nevertheless, local authorities are concerned about the hundreds of tourists who travel this route daily, which often leads to dangerous situations and traffic jams on the narrow road full of potholes. Therefore, construction work in this area is deemed necessary.
To achieve this, the district authorities have consulted local residents since expanding the road will require encroaching on their land. The residents have supported the idea and voluntarily waived compensation for the lost land.
"This is a rare example of unity between businesses, authorities, and local residents," noted the administration of Klungkung.
The new road is expected to be safer with more space for cars and motorcycles to pass each other. Furthermore, the road will become more comfortable and accessible due to the even surface and flood protection, and it will simplify logistics for tour groups.
The work is scheduled to start in 2026, but preparations have already begun. Tourists visiting these popular spots might see signs about the upcoming changes and workers taking measurements.
Nusa Penida is currently the second most visited destination in Bali after Uluwatu. Last year, the island welcomed 1.2 million tourists, 40% more compared to 2023. Seventy percent of these visitors go to Broken Beach and Angel Billabong. The infrastructure in these areas is struggling to keep up with such growth, so road expansion is merely the first step. Plans also include upgrading parking areas and pedestrian zones.
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