Anyone who was in Kuta about 18 months ago remembers the extensive storm drain project that was going on. It was so extensive, that barely any main street, or high traffic side street didn’t get fully dug up, with 10ft deep trenches allowing new drains to be installed. The project was funded by the World Bank. My feeling were that it would all be worth it. I’m not so sure after this afternoon.
Jl. Legian was like a river, people either choosing the conservative route up on the sidewalk, or throwing caution to the wind and jet-skiing home. The junction of Jl. Legian and Jl. Benesari was a comedy of people negotiating traffic and water. Outside Brasil restaurant the only choice you had was to wade. Out on Jl. Pantai Kuta things were not any better. Motorbikes didn’t dare ride on the road for fear of an unseen pothole. Cars crawled and people waved.
I got a bit damp myself but I have to say the Balinese locals always approach this kind of thing with good spirits. I didn’t see too much ill will and did see much laughing. Wonder if the storm drains are just bunged up? Whatever the answer, they aren’t working right now.
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Having been lucky enough to spend a couple of weeks in Bali the last few Januaries, somethings never change. Blocked drains is one. When the foot paths are submerged under water, it is safer to wade down the middle of the road, rather than break your leg on a missing/broken man hole cover that lurks beneath the murky waters. I think that is why all the newer shops in Jalan Legian have had several steps up to their door. Sometimes, even those are not high enough, as I have wittnessed, while having a meal, the poor shop assistants trying to repel the waves of water with floor cloths. All good fun if it is not your business!
I hate to say it Nick but the drains are most likely bunged up with rubbish. Maybe that’s your opinion too.
One thing about Bali, we may get wet but we don’t get cold, so it’s comparatively easy to remain cheerful. About three years ago, I was leaving Warung 96 and I asked the guy on the door to call me a boat.
BTW it seems like my posts are being held up to be checked for abuse etc. I understand why you are checking the posts from one or two people and I’m pleased that this is happening, but surely most of us don’t require this.