A POPULAR island destination is due to get a huge underground railway network, which is set to change travel across the region.
The Bali Mass Rapid Transit, officially known as the Bali Urban Subway, is a $20billion (£15.1billion) underground railway network panned to run under Bali and be completed by 2031.
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The whole network is being built in four phases, with the first two already in the works and expected to be completed by 2028 followed by the latter two phases in 2031.
The aim of the network is to combat current issues of traffic congestion, as well as preserving cultural heritage, such as sacred sites.
In addition, plans currently include giving each station in the network a unique theme, making the rail experience a tourist destination as well as a functioning transport system.
For example, according to Bali Discovery, Kuta will focus on its role as a commercial centre while Seminyak will be based around entertainment.
Canggu/Berawa will reflect on health and wellness and Cemagi/Munggu will have a nature theme including a botanical underground park and a replica of a traditional village is planned.
The first two phases of the network will connect Denpasar International Airport (DPS) with popular tourist spots in southern Bali.
The very first phase will link the airport to Cemagi, whilst the second phase will link the airport to Nusa Dua.
The latter two phases will connect Kuta Sentral Parkir to Sanur and Renon to Ubud and are currently in the feasibility stage.
Due to building regulations in the region, buildings cannot be built higher than a coconut tree.
The new transit system is due to benefit both locals and tourists, however concerns have been raised regarding the affordability of the network for residents.
Tourist fares are estimated to cost between $35 and $40 (£26.46 and £30.24) a week.
It is expected that the network will host over a million commuters each day and improve the overall travel experience across the destination.
Other infrastructure will also be implemented, including an undersea fibre optic cable that will stretch from Singapore to Bali – which measures over 3,000 kilometres.
Bali welcomes around 15.4million visitors each year.
And the destination is set to make $22.1billion (£16.7billion) from tourism in 2025, which will be about a 26 per cent increase from 2024.
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Bali recently revealed plans for a huge new £2.5billion airport.
First announced in 2016, the new airport hopes to open up international travel to the north of the island as well as reduce capacity at the current airport.
Works are yet to start although it hopes to take three years when given the go-ahead.
Bali also has plans for a £726million theme park to be built on the island.
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