BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – The Chair of Commission IV of the Badung Regional Legislative Council (DPRD), I Nyoman Graha Wicaksana, has called for a comprehensive evaluation following flooding that affected parts of Kuta District, including Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak, after three consecutive days of heavy rain ending Tuesday (Feb 24, 2026).
Graha stated that the flooding not only caused material losses but also affected Bali’s tourism image, particularly Kuta as a key tourism destination. He noted that widespread circulation of photos and videos on social media has shaped public perception that the area is unsafe and uncomfortable for visitors.
“As a result of this flooding, the reputation of Kuta and Badung tourism has been affected. Many people have uploaded photos and videos,” he said.
According to Graha, in the current era of open information, negative perceptions are difficult to control. He emphasized that actual field conditions must be taken seriously by local authorities as part of a broader evaluation.
He urged a holistic review of the drainage and water management systems in the Kuta area. He pointed out that current water disposal relies heavily on Tukad Mati River. When water discharge increases, the drainage system becomes less effective, leading to widespread flooding.
“There must be a comprehensive study by the Public Works agency. Does the drainage system need upgrading? Can outflow channels be redirected, for example directly to the sea, so they do not depend solely on Tukad Mati?” Graha said.
He added that beyond reputational impact, the flooding has directly affected businesses and local communities. Hotels, small enterprises, and micro-businesses were reportedly impacted, with some forced to temporarily close operations due to standing water.
“Hotels that had never been flooded are now affected. Many small businesses have suffered losses. If calculated, the losses could reach billions of rupiah,” he said.
Graha also highlighted Jalan Wana Segara as an emerging flood-prone location in Kuta, where water levels reportedly exceeded one meter. He described this as an unprecedented event for the area.
He suggested that the government consider relief measures or incentives for affected businesses, noting that they have consistently met their tax obligations.
He called on relevant agencies, including the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Public Works (PUPR), subdistrict heads, and village officials, to conduct immediate field assessments to document losses suffered by residents and business operators.
“Help those affected first. Collect data, verify it, and provide clarity on assistance. Do not stop at data collection without follow-up action,” he said.
In addition to economic losses, Graha said residents are experiencing psychological distress. Many now feel anxious whenever heavy rain begins, fearing recurring flooding.
“It is not only material loss, but also immaterial. Residents are psychologically affected because every rainfall now creates concern,” he said.
He emphasized the need for preventive flood management strategies, including the formation of standby disaster response teams at village and subdistrict levels during periods of high rainfall to ensure faster response.
“Tourism depends heavily on perception and reputation. When negative images appear due to flooding, we are all affected. This must be evaluated seriously and handled comprehensively,” he concluded.