Water Taxi Pier Project in Badung Requires 14 Further Studies

The government has emphasised that the plan to develop a water taxi pier in Badung Regency is not yet final, as it must undergo at least 14 further studies. In-depth and thorough assessments covering socio-cultural, environmental, and technical aspects are required as an initial step to ensure the project’s long-term viability.

As a starting point, the central government is conducting socialisation efforts with the local community. All analytical results will serve as the primary basis for the government’s final decision.

“The plan is not yet final; it still needs to complete at least 14 further studies covering socio-cultural, environmental, and technical aspects,” said Liz Zeny Merry, Assistant for Infrastructure and Connectivity Supporting Facilities at the Coordinating Ministry for Infrastructure, on Friday (2/10/2026).

She emphasised that socialisation is the first step before the government determines the direction of this maritime transport development. According to her, the Berawa area is one of the locations under initial consideration for the pier.

“Berawa is one of the areas under initial consideration. From a technical aspect, it has relatively lower wave characteristics compared to several other points along the coast,” Liz noted.

However, technical criteria are not the sole focus. She stressed that the government needs to conduct a comprehensive study, accounting for aspects beyond technicalities and other potential impacts. Additionally, a primary focus is anticipating potential changes in coastal sedimentation if a breakwater is constructed.

“Sacred areas and community activities around the location are also important aspects requiring deep study. We want tourism to become more comfortable and for traffic congestion issues to find solutions, but the benefits of development must outweigh the impacts,” said Liz.

She added that the preparation of the technical feasibility study involves Udayana University (Unud). This process will take place before proceeding to the Detailed Engineering Design (DED) stage. She also noted that all community feedback gathered during the socialisation process is being recorded.

She emphasised that the current process is still in the early stages of communication and joint assessment with local residents, so a construction schedule cannot yet be confirmed. The government assured that the project will not be forced through if the analysis proves it is unfeasible.

For context, the sea taxi pier is planned to be built at Perancak Beach, Tibubeneng Village, North Kuta District, Badung. The Badung Regency Government has cautioned that the pier construction must not disturb Hindu devotees or local fishermen.

“The planned site for the pier is near temple areas, so we must ensure that the existence of Pura Segara and the sites for collecting holy water for the community are not affected. We will study this more deeply to ensure that socio-cultural activities and fishing can continue,” said the Assistant for Economy and Development of the Badung Regional Secretariat, I Made Agus Aryawan, during a field inspection.

The construction of the pier at Perancak Beach is estimated to require more than three hectares of land for primary and supporting facilities. However, the local government must ensure that the project plan does not interfere with other aspects such as the environment, traffic, socio-cultural activities, and the local economy.