The Gili Islands, located near Lombok, attract hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. As the tiny islands welcome an increasing number of visitors, and changing environmental conditions affect the natural water cycle and, consequently, the water supply in the region, a serious cause for concern has emerged.
Residents, business owners, and tourists on the islands are facing a water supply crisis and its impact on daily life. Recently, the supply of piped water has been interrupted for several days at a time, forcing many tourists to cancel their bookings.
There are concerns that the tourism industry on the Gili Islands could be at risk if urgent measures are not taken to ensure an uninterrupted water supply. Tourism revenue on the Gili Islands accounts for more than 70% of North Lombok district’s annual income. However, the clean water crisis, in addition to the lack of medical facilities on the island, threatens the future of hundreds of local business owners and families living there.
Since most visitors are foreign tourists, the level of service must meet international standards. The island’s population is hoping for additional support from the government to maintain Gili’s reputation as a popular tourist destination in Indonesia.
The threat of clean water shortages is not only felt on the Gili Islands but across the entire Bali province. It is expected that by 2025, Bali will also face a severe water shortage.
According to statistics, Bali’s water supply needs in 2021 were 5.9 million liters per second, and by 2025, the need is projected to reach 7.9 million liters per second. Hotels are the biggest water consumers, with their minimum maintenance costs per room amounting to 800 liters per day. In comparison, households only need 200 liters per person per day.
As for the Gili Islands, tourists are advised to contact tour operators and hotels before their trip to check the water situation and avoid unpleasant surprises.
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