BWCC

Preserving a drop of water today means saving the lives of future generations. (Freepik)

Denpasar - Bangli Regency, Bali, is the largest water supplier for other regions in Bali. Yet, for decades until today, many areas in Bangli still suffer from drought and limited access to clean water.

This condition was acknowledged by I Made Ari Pulasari, Assistant I of the Bangli Regency Regional Secretary. He revealed that the water crisis is indeed highly vulnerable and often occurs, especially in the Kintamani area.

Yet, Kintamani is a tourism area frequently visited by foreign tourists.

“Kintamani is a highland area where water sources are very limited. This situation is extremely urgent and vital,” Ari explained during a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) in Bangli Regency, Friday (August 15, 2025).

According to him, the Regent of Bangli is currently advocating for the construction of the Sidan Dam. The dam is located within the areas of Badung, Gianyar, and Bangli Regencies.

“About 80 percent of Bali’s water sources may come from Bangli, particularly Bunutin. Yet, we cannot enjoy even a little of it because the flow is dammed and diverted to meet the needs of other regencies, such as Badung, Denpasar, Tabanan, and Gianyar,” he stressed.

Ari stated that this water crisis also has the potential to trigger other forms of violence, particularly affecting women and children who are the most vulnerable and at risk.

“Water is indeed a vital companion for mothers. When water is unavailable, it’s always the mothers who suffer most, starting from waking up, preparing for the children, the husbands, and all household needs,” Ari said.

Several cases of water conflicts have also occurred in Bali. However, he admitted that legally, they are difficult to resolve and there is no certainty in reaching a final decision.

“Five years ago, there was a water issue between Kutuh, Bangli, and Singaraja. Today, the water dispute between Siakin and Les is still unresolved. The people of Les claim that the water source in Kutuh has long been governed by customary agreements,” he said.

The FGD, titled “Legal Challenges in Gender-Based Violence and Access to Clean Water in Bali,” was held as part of the Water Campaign and Advocacy for Women’s Empowerment in Bali.

The program was initiated by Ni Nengah Budawati, Director of the Bali Women Crisis Centre Legal Aid Institute (LBH BWCC).

Budawati emphasized the importance of linking gender justice issues with the right to water.

“Access to clean water is not merely a matter of technical infrastructure, but also a question of human rights, ecological justice, and gender justice,” she said.

According to her, the FGD also aimed to formulate collective steps to ensure that legal protection for women and affected communities is truly present and tangible.