Rough Seas Severely Damage the Happy Beach Pedestrian Footpath in Buleleng

The condition of the pedestrian footpath along Happy Beach, Tukadmungga Village, Buleleng, Bali, is increasingly worrying. The footpath along the shoreline is severely damaged due to repeated battering by surf. Observations at the site show several paving blocks sunken and detached from their bedding. The outer concrete retaining structure has also collapsed, leaving gaping holes that expose the interior of the construction. The surface of the footpath in several locations has subsided, forming depressions. The damage could pose a hazard to pedestrians, especially in the late afternoon to evening when the beachfront area is busy with residents’ activities. In addition to disrupting comfort, the condition also detracts from the aesthetic of the beach area, which has long been a favourite public space for residents to exercise or relax. If not repaired soon, the damage is feared to worsen as waves continue to erode the coastline. A stallholder at Happy Beach, Kadek Hepi, said the damage had actually been ongoing for quite some time. He estimates it has been going on for more than a year. ‘The damage has been going on for a long time, more than a year, because it is often battered by waves too, erosion,’ Hepi said on Thursday (5/3/2026). According to Hepi, the damage is disrupting residents’ activities. Previously, the pedestrian path was often used by people for a relaxed walk or jogging in the morning. ‘In the past, many people walked or jogged here every morning. But now, with this condition, it cannot be used comfortably,’ Hepi said. Hepi also highlighted the poor lighting around the area. At night, the damaged footpath area is considered quite dangerous for passersby. ‘At night, especially with no lights, it is also somewhat dangerous,’ he added. A similar complaint was voiced by a visitor, Putu Agus. He says the damage makes the beach area unattractive to look at. In addition, the condition could pose a danger to visitors. ‘Besides being unattractive to look at, it is also dangerous if someone accidentally slips because they are not careful,’ Agus said. Agus hopes the government or related parties will promptly undertake repairs so the pedestrian route can be safely used by the public again.