Bali heading toward drought-like situation; over tourism one of the causes

Bali, which has been attracting tourists all this while with its pristine beauty, is likely heading toward a drought-like situation and acute water shortage. And rising tourism is looked upon as the most plausible cause for this. The latest report has it that rivers in the region are drying up, and will likely disrupt life not only in Bali but also in Indonesia.

The Balinese people have been using subak, which is a sophisticated irrigation system that diverts water from channels to rice fields and back to water crops. They have been dependent on this system since the ninth century, which also embodies the Balinese Hindu philosophy of harmony between people, nature, and the spiritual realm.
The island is, however, now facing a water crisis that is threatening food security, quality of life, and traditional culture due to drought, and as per the International Federation of the Red Cross, it is affecting 50 million people across Indonesia.

On the other side, Bali has been a popular tourist hotspot, because of the region being marketed is such a way that gives us an impression of ultimate beauty with lush greenery and clear seawater. And this has unfortunately hit Bali dearly, with reports by Indonesia’s Environment Protection Agency claiming 260 out of 400 rivers have dried out. Also, as per another report, a tourist uses between 2000 to 4000 L of water per day on an average, which is based on daily water use at resorts. Further, water sources receive high demands to fill up swimming pools and watering golf courses, and much more.

This situation is likely to worsen in the coming years. The other reason for this water crisis is delayed rainfall. In fact, the wet season has not yet started this year, thereby affecting the villagers who are already suffering. Now, with the water being diverted to tourist places, there is growing friction among the locals and hotel industry.

The need of the hour is the government coming up with an effective sustainable water management plan. So, if you are planning to visit Bali any time soon, be mindful of the water crisis there.