China Backed Bali MRT Goes Underground for Tradition

Bali partners with China to build its first MRT, prioritizing underground tunnels to honor sacred land. Phase one to launch by 2028
A Whoosh train in Jakarta. China's developer who built whoosh train is active in building Bali underground MRT. Image: Yasuyoshi Chiba / AFP

Bali’s first-ever subway project is moving closer to reality, with officials favoring underground tunnels over elevated tracks to respect the island’s religious and cultural landscape.

The $20 billion plan is being developed in partnership with China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) and includes cooperation with Jakarta’s MRT authorities, following a high-level working visit last Friday.

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by Edwin Shri Bimo

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