Bali has announced a ban on new hotels and restaurants built on agricultural land, particularly rice fields, following deadly flash floods that killed at least 18 people. The island declared a state of emergency on 10 September after the worst flooding in over a decade, triggered by heavy rainfall that damaged homes and infrastructure across Denpasar and surrounding areas.
Governor Wayan Koster said new instructions have been issued to district heads and mayors to halt permits for commercial facilities on productive land. “Starting this year, no more permits will be issued for hotels, restaurants or other facilities on productive land, especially rice fields,” he stated on 14 September, as reported by Indonesia's state news agency Antara. The ban aligns with Bali's 100-year plan, with full enforcement expected by 2025.
Environmental activists have long criticised mass tourism's impact on the island, linking land conversion to increased flood risks. The move follows a previous moratorium on new hotels that failed to materialise. Indonesia's meteorology agency has warned of an extreme rainy season, exacerbated by climate change, which scientists say brings heavier rainfall and more frequent flash floods.
Environment Minister Hanif Faisal Nurofiq endorsed the ban, saying, “This is extremely important for Bali's tourism as the recent flooding has drawn serious attention.” Overdevelopment and deforestation are believed to worsen flooding, which is common during the wet season from September to March.
