Due to environmental controversy, Bali authorities have suspended the 182-meter-high cliff glass elevator project built by Chinese developer China Kais Group at Kelingking Beach. The elevator was originally planned to facilitate tourists' access to the beach, but photos of the elevator shaft cutting into the iconic T-Rex-shaped cliff (nicknamed "T-Rex Cliff") went viral on social media, angering locals and tourists who believe it damages natural beauty and accelerates erosion.
Authorities also found that the project did not obtain necessary permits. Local residents and netizens expressed dissatisfaction, arguing that tourists come to Bali to enjoy the natural environment, not an elevator. Bali lawmakers have consistently opposed the project, citing excessive risks. The duration of the suspension is unclear. Some have called on authorities to repair the stairs connecting the cliff and the beach instead of pushing forward with such "vanity projects."
The elevator project cost $12 million. Currently, hiking to and from the beach takes a long time, and swimming is prohibited due to narrow coastline and strong waves, yet some ignore warnings, leading to frequent casualties. Additionally, Chinese investment in Bali continues to grow, such as the $3 billion investment by Chinese enterprise Chang'an Construction Group in a joint venture with a local company to build Bali's second airport.
Due to environmental controversy, Bali authorities have suspended the 182-meter-high cliff glass elevator project built by Chinese developer China Kais Group at Kelingking Beach. The elevator was originally planned to facilitate tourists' access to the beach, but photos of the elevator shaft cutting into the iconic T-Rex-shaped cliff (nicknamed "T-Rex Cliff") went viral on social media, angering locals and tourists who believe it damages natural beauty and accelerates erosion.
Authorities also found that the project did not obtain necessary permits. Local residents and netizens expressed dissatisfaction, arguing that tourists come to Bali to enjoy the natural environment, not an elevator. Bali lawmakers have consistently opposed the project, citing excessive risks. The duration of the suspension is unclear. Some have called on authorities to repair the stairs connecting the cliff and the beach instead of pushing forward with such "vanity projects."
The elevator project cost $12 million. Currently, hiking to and from the beach takes a long time, and swimming is prohibited due to narrow coastline and strong waves, yet some ignore warnings, leading to frequent casualties. Additionally, Chinese investment in Bali continues to grow, such as the $3 billion investment by Chinese enterprise Chang'an Construction Group in a joint venture with a local company to build Bali's second airport.