The construction of a 182-meter glass lift at Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida has sparked significant controversy among locals and tourists. The lift, which is designed to provide easier access to the beach, has been under construction for over 18 months. However, Bali's provincial government recently suspended the project to review its permits, leaving the future of the lift uncertain.

Kelingking Beach is renowned for its stunning views, featuring steep cliffs and vibrant blue waves. The area has become a popular destination for tourists, many of whom come to take photos for social media. However, the new lift has divided opinions, with some viewing it as a necessary development and others seeing it as a threat to the natural beauty of the landscape.

"It breaks my heart," said Niluh Djelantik, an independent national senator based in Bali. "The beauty is being taken away … there's nowhere else in the world like here. The local authorities need to ask themselves, 'What are we doing to our mother?'"

The lift was proposed as a solution to the current steep and challenging pathway that visitors must navigate to reach the beach. Critics argue that the construction detracts from the area's natural beauty and has led to a surge in online backlash, with images of the lift disrupting the iconic view going viral.

The Bali Regional Spatial Planning, Assets and Licensing committee halted the construction, citing improper permit processes. I Made Supartha, the head of the committee, stated that the company responsible for the lift sought approval from the local Klungkung Regency instead of the appropriate district authorities. He emphasized that both provincial and central government studies should have been conducted before proceeding with the project.

"According to spatial planning concepts, that's not really the right place for a glass lift," Supartha said. "There were also some deceptive moves made to make it look [like] the authority rested with the Klungkung Regency."

The decision to suspend the project comes amid growing concerns about the impact of tourism development on Bali's environment. Environmental groups have long opposed the lift, citing fears of erosion and safety risks. Made Krisna Dinata from the environmental NGO Walhi Bali warned that the fragile landscape could suffer from the addition of such infrastructure.

"When you add infrastructure in an area like that, for instance, a 180-meter-tall glass lift, you're talking about potentially uncontrollable environmental impacts down the line," Dinata said.

Tourists visiting Kelingking Beach have expressed their dismay over the construction. French tourist Pauline remarked, "It's the most beautiful landscape we've ever seen, but this elevator ruins it." Indian tourist Arun added, "It's ruining this photographic spot … and creating a huge impact."

Conversely, some locals see the lift as a potential boost for business. Kadek Yartini, who works at a nearby restaurant, expressed hope that the completed lift would attract more visitors. "Right now, we don't really have many customers. Once it's done, we might get more visitors," she said.

The debate over the lift reflects a broader discussion about the balance between development and environmental conservation in Bali. With over 6.3 million foreign visitors expected this year, the island faces challenges in managing its tourism industry while preserving its natural beauty.

In light of recent deadly floods in Bali, which many attribute to overtourism, the urgency for sustainable development has intensified. Senator Djelantik emphasized the need for infrastructure that benefits the local community rather than solely catering to tourism. "We don't need to build this; we need to build a beautiful road, access, public facilities, clean water, schools, healthcare … things that benefit the island and the happiness of our people," she said.

As the provincial government reviews the permits for the lift, the future of Kelingking Beach remains uncertain, with many hoping for a resolution that prioritizes both the environment and the local community's needs.