Bali's water crisis is a complex issue, with tourism playing a significant role in the depletion of this precious resource. The island's irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been under threat due to the growing tourism industry. I Putu Partayasa, a local farmer, highlights the issue of water scarcity, noting that his field has water, but his neighbor's does not. He fears that companies are siphoning off water for tourism, leading to the drying of springs and the loss of rice fields. This is a critical problem, as rice fields are not just a source of income but also vital water infrastructure. The Canggu Shortcut, a narrow lane between rice paddies, now hosts a bustling tourism scene, with luxury resorts, co-working spaces, and restaurants replacing the once-green fields. This transformation has had a profound impact on the island's water supply.
Tourism in Bali has surged, attracting over 16 million visitors in 2024, four times the permanent population. This influx has led to a staggering 65% of Bali's fresh water being consumed by tourists, leaving the average Balinese resident with a mere 30-50 liters per day. The situation is particularly dire in southern Bali, where groundwater extraction has pushed aquifers beyond sustainable levels. Coastal wells are turning brackish as seawater moves inland, and the IDEP Foundation has declared Bali to be in a water crisis, with seawater intrusion found in at least six districts.
The issue of water scarcity is further exacerbated by the presence of illegal water businesses. Borewells, designated for household or personal use, are being repurposed for commercial purposes, with operators buying water wholesale and reselling it to hotels and villas. The Bali provincial government acknowledges the problem but lacks the authority to enforce regulations, as inspections and enforcement fall under central government control. This has led to a situation where developers can build hotels without providing adequate water infrastructure, causing further strain on the island's water resources.
The impact of tourism on Bali's water crisis is multifaceted. It not only affects the local population's access to water but also disrupts the traditional water-sharing cooperative system, known as subak. This ancient practice, which has governed Balinese irrigation for over a thousand years, is now at risk. The subak system, which views water as a gift to be shared, is being challenged by the commercial interests of the tourism industry. The loss of rice fields, a vital part of the irrigation system, further compounds the problem, as these fields act as natural water storage and recharge the aquifers.
The consequences of this crisis are far-reaching. Local farmers like Parta are struggling to sustain their livelihoods, and the island's agricultural heritage is at risk. The water crisis also has social implications, as evidenced by Kadek Siska's experience in Uluwatu. The high cost of water, especially for drinking, has led to a sense of injustice and jealousy among the local population, who are witnessing the excess water usage by tourists. The situation has created a divide between the haves and have-nots, with the wealthy resorts and their guests enjoying abundant water resources while the locals grapple with scarcity.
Addressing Bali's water crisis requires a multifaceted approach. It involves stricter regulations on groundwater extraction, a moratorium on new hotel construction, and a reevaluation of the online permitting system. By prioritizing community consultation and sustainable development, Bali can strive to preserve its precious water resources and protect its rich cultural heritage. The island's future depends on finding a balance between tourism and the preservation of its natural environment, ensuring that the water crisis does not become a defining characteristic of Bali's identity.
