Bali, popularly known by the name “Islands of Gods” is famous for beaches, unique culture and temples. Bali is Indonesia’s top tourist destination. It has welcomed 6.3 million tourists in 2024 alone which was 20.67% higher than 2023.
PROBLEMS CAUSED BY MASS TOURISM
The over tourism is impacting Bali’s resources ever than before, which includes:
- Over development of accommodation
- Island resources including water, electricity and food are getting impacted
- Pressure on island’s infrastructure including roads
RESOLUTIONS SUGGESTED BY AUTHORITIES
Balinese officials are planning to introduce a “daily tourism tax” to control the number of tourists visiting the island. The fee will be $100 for international tourists. Bali is following Bhutan’s footsteps by applying a Sustainable Development Fee.
Wayan Puspa Negara, head of the Bali Marginal Tourism Actors Alliance, told the South China Morning Post that the island is going to “select tourists from spending perspective” and curb the tourists count on the island.
Though Bali’s economy heavily depends upon tourists, mass tourism has caused rising concerns in the last few years. The travellers are not respecting the rich culture, delicious food, affordable accommodation and scenic beaches in an efficient way.
ACTIONS TAKEN BY AUTHORITIES
- In 2023, Bali banned foreigners from renting motorbikes to reduce road accidents.
- In 2024, Balinese officials halted the construction of new night clubs, villas and hotels in various parts of the island.
- The Balinese Tourism Board has run a campaign to request tourists to behave and respect the rich culture of the island.
This new initiative is the step in this direction of handling crowding issues and controlling ill-behaved tourists.
