Bali, famed for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes, has been facing a mounting challenge as its popularity as a top tourist destination grows: traffic congestion. Despite significant infrastructure development, the island’s transportation system has remained heavily reliant on private vehicles, contributing to daily traffic snarls, particularly in key tourist areas.
To tackle this issue, a long-awaited solution is now in progress—an underground rapid transit railway system. The Bali provincial government has fast-tracked the project, moving from years of feasibility studies to a groundbreaking ceremony held in September 2024. The government-appointed regional business entity, PT Sarana Bali Dwipa Jaya (SBDJ), is actively working with investors to fund and build the Bali Urban Subway.
This modern subway system is expected to address the island’s traffic problems by providing an efficient public transportation alternative. In May 2024, PT Bumi Indah Prima (BIP) was selected as the investor for the project, which will be carried out in four phases.
The subway will connect I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport to popular destinations such as Seminyak, Sanur, and Ubud. Due to the island’s geography and limited land availability, the decision was made to build the railway system entirely underground, ensuring minimal disruption to the environment and Bali’s cultural landmarks.
The project, guided by the Tri Hita Karana philosophy—emphasizing harmony between humans, nature, and the gods—will make use of existing government-owned land to reduce the need for land acquisition, thereby preserving Bali’s natural landscape. Following the official launch, the first construction phase will focus on building 16 kilometers and 13.5 kilometers of underground tracks, with the first phase expected to take longer due to challenging terrain.
The project is being led by PT Indotek in collaboration with China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) and local contractor PT Sinar Bali Bina Karya. With funding of $10.8 billion for the initial phases and $9.2 billion for subsequent phases, the development is set to be a game-changer for Bali’s transportation system.
As construction kicks off, ten tunnel boring machines (TBMs) will begin their work in April 2025, drilling 30 meters below ground to create a network of tunnels. The subway system, set to be completed by 2028, will operate 24 hours a day, with a 10-minute interval between trains. Each train will feature six carriages, accommodating 40 passengers each.
While ticket prices are yet to be finalized, tourists may expect to pay between $35 and $40 for a weekly pass, while Bali residents with local ID cards might enjoy free travel, making the system accessible to both visitors and locals.
The Bali Urban Subway is poised to ease traffic, reduce carbon emissions, and provide a more sustainable and efficient way for tourists to explore the island, making it a significant step forward in Bali’s tourism infrastructure. This development not only benefits visitors but also enhances the quality of life for local residents, promising a brighter future for Bali’s transportation system.
