Bali construction may become more expensive: discussions are underway

An initiative that could radically change its architectural appearance is being actively discussed on the Indonesian island of Bali. A special commission of the Bali Parliament proposed to allow the construction of buildings up to 45 meters high, which corresponds to about 15 floors. The current limit is 15 meters, which is due not only to technical standards, but also to local tradition: the building should not be taller than a coconut palm. The proposal has already been submitted to Governor Wayan Koster for further consideration.

The main reason for such a radical step is the rapid growth of the tourism industry and, as a result, the shortage of land. In popular areas such as Nusa Dua, South Kuta and Sanur, land is becoming a valuable resource, and demand for hotels and infrastructure continues to grow. According to the head of the commission and Madame Suparta, the island needs a more adaptive policy that takes into account the realities of development, but does not sacrifice cultural and environmental values.

It is important to emphasize that we are not talking about the total construction of the entire island with high-rise buildings. The authorities propose to introduce a zoning system in which 15-storey buildings will be allowed only in strictly defined locations, mainly in coastal and already densely populated tourist areas. The initiators themselves do not call this relaxation, but an attempt to restore order in the face of inevitable growth.

However, the main obstacle to innovation lies not in the field of economics, but in the field of religion and traditions. Bali has a Tri Hita Karana concept, in which the space above the ground is considered sacred. The construction of buildings above the coconut palm is perceived by many as a violation of harmony. Therefore, the initiative has already provoked a strong reaction from religious leaders.

The head of the Bali I Hindu Council, Nyoman Kenak, urged not to rush to make a decision. According to him, the transition from 15 to 45 meters requires careful research from the point of view of ecology, culture and territorial planning.

In parallel, additional control measures are being discussed in the Bali Government. Among them is a possible moratorium on the issuance of new permits in already congested areas, the creation of a special working group to oversee construction sites and strengthen the protection of natural areas, including the Beratan Lake area.

Source: BaliForum