Bali Kuta Beach: Construction project set to halt coastal erosion near completion despite challenges

Known for its wide golden sands and beachside hotel resorts, Kuta is one of the most famous beaches in Bali but over the past few months construction has disturbed its usual tranquil vibe.

Like many other areas of the Indonesian coastline, the south shores of Bali are experiencing major coastal erosion.

For more than a decade, erosion prevention measures and conservation efforts have been underway but with the ocean continuing to encroach on the sand, Balinese authorities have begun to building breakwaters along the beach.

Construction of the new breakwaters along Kuta Beach is nearing the finish line, with the project on track for completion by the end of April — however, unpredictable sea conditions could still cause delays.

Officials say four of the five structures are already complete, with the final section about 75 per cent finished and targeting completion by April 25.

“We have five breakwaters under construction. Four are already 100 per cent complete,” project officer Bambang Kardono told The Bali Sun.

“Now, the only remaining breakwater is BW5, which is about 75 per cent done.”

Work has been temporarily halted due to “manda” sea conditions — where water levels sit too high for safe machinery use.

“We haven’t been able to work for three days because the sea level is ‘manda’, so it’s not possible to continue,” Mr Kardono said.

Crews are expected to return to site from Friday after fuel supply issues were resolved.

Tourists visiting Kuta Beach can expect to see and hear construction activity through to the end of the month, although authorities say disruption will be kept to a minimum.

“If there are no obstacles, we are optimistic it will be completed on target,” Mr Kardono added.

“We hope this project will reduce coastal erosion and ensure the safety and sustainability of the area.”