KARANGASEM, DEWATA.NEWS – Coastal revitalization work at Candidasa Beach in Bugbug Village, Karangasem Regency, is progressing as part of a long-term effort to address shoreline erosion that has gradually reduced the coastline and threatened one of the region’s key tourism areas.
Local officials say erosion in Candidasa has been a longstanding concern. Tourism adviser to the Karangasem Regent, I Wayan Tama, noted that coastal degradation has narrowed parts of the beach and increased risks to nearby infrastructure and tourism activity.
“Candidasa is one of the main gateways for tourism in Karangasem. If the coastline continues to deteriorate, the impact will be felt on the area’s tourism image,” Tama said.
The project is being carried out by PT Hutama Karya and includes coastal reinforcement, area reorganization, and the development of supporting infrastructure such as pedestrian paths, drainage systems, beach pools, and access roads. The revitalization is intended to strengthen the shoreline while improving the overall functionality and safety of the tourism zone.
Hutama Karya spokesperson Ngatno said the initial phase of the project involves an investment exceeding IDR 500 billion and covers more than five kilometers of coastline. He emphasized that construction is being implemented in stages and with consideration for local livelihoods.
“We are ensuring that fishing activities and local businesses can continue. The work is zoned so it does not disrupt the livelihoods of coastal communities,” Ngatno said.
Tourism industry representatives have welcomed the project. Chairman of the Karangasem chapter of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI), I Wayan Kariasa, said coastal conservation at Candidasa has been proposed for years as erosion began affecting hotel operations and visitor activity.
“We raised this issue a long time ago because erosion kept worsening. If it had not been addressed, the impact on tourism would have become much broader,” Kariasa said.
He added that Candidasa holds historical importance as one of the earliest tourism areas in Karangasem, making the protection of its coastline essential for sustaining both tourism and the local economy.
Local residents have also expressed hope that the project will deliver tangible benefits. Community figure I Nengah Supartha from Banjar Samuh, Bugbug Village, said the revitalization should improve safety for fishermen while enhancing the area’s appeal.
“We want this beach to be not only visually improved, but also safer for going out to sea and able to provide better livelihoods for coastal residents,” he said.
The Candidasa Beach revitalization is expected to restore damaged coastal areas while reinforcing the role of the beach as a major tourism destination in eastern Bali, with authorities stressing that community involvement remains a key consideration throughout the project’s implementation.