Bali: Nusa Penida’s iconic Kellingking Beach ‘glass elevator’ plans suspended after backlash and permit issues
The controversial ‘Glass Elevator’ project in Nusa Penida has come to a halt due to outcry from locals and worrying permitting issues.
World-famous Kelingking Beach, with its ‘T-rex-shaped’ cliffs and turquoise waters, attracts scores of tourists who come to take in the view, but the ambitious project designed to boost tourism in the area has not gone as planned.
The $2.4 million project was expected to build a 182-foot elevator to provide easier access from the top of the cliff, as well as a bridge structure spanning from the cliff to the shoreline, to replace the existing steep and dangerous slope.
However, after a year of construction, Balinese authorities suspended construction after government officials determined that the project did not receive the necessary permits.
It is unclear how long the suspension will last as the investigation is ongoing.
“The Bali Municipal police will ensure that no construction activities continue here,” government official Made Supartha said. Bali Sun.
Chinese developer China Kaishi Group is leading the project, backed by a reported $18.5 million in international investment, including $5.5 million allocated to the elevator structure alone. However, with construction halted, stakeholders and local residents are increasingly concerned about the future of the partially completed facility if approval is rejected.
Following the approval of the proposed project, there was a tremendous response; Both locals and tourists emphasized that the project was an ‘eyesore’ in terms of the natural beauty of the region and accelerated erosion because it changed the natural structure of the cliff.
Local resident Made Sediana told The Bali Sun: “It’s a shame that the beautiful view of Kelingking Beach has been destroyed by the elevator project.”
Despite its reputation as a photo-perfect location, Kelingking Beach is considered the state’s most dangerous coastline following a recent spate of injuries and deaths due to strong currents and high waves.
Last month, it was reported that a 32-year-old French tourist died after ignoring lifeguards’ calls to get out of the water due to increasingly dangerous conditions.
In 2024, three people died, including a 30-year-old tourist from Qatar who was visiting the beach with a group of friends.
“If it was easier for guests to go down, it would also be dangerous. The coastline there is narrow and big waves come suddenly. The best way to enjoy the beauty of Kelingking Beach is from above,” Ms Sediana said.
