The provincial administration of Bali has reopened beaches in Denpasar and Badung regency on Thursday (July 9) under “strict health protocols” to local people and stranded foreign tourists after three months of lockdown restrictions to limit the risk and spread of COVID-19 pandemic in the province.

Bali COVID-19 task force spokesperson I Dewa Gede Rai informed that the number of visitors to each beach will be limited. For instant, only 75 people are allowed on Sanur Beach then the number of new visitors will be determined by the number of visitors leaving the beach.

Sanur Beach, Denpasar Bali, Indonesia

Moreover, the guards of COVID-19 task force would be at the all entrances to the beaches to enforce the health protocols strictly.

Earlier, authorities had restricted public activities, closed the airport and shuttered all shops, bars, shut down restaurants, public swimming pools and many other places on the island. Now the local government began lifting the lockdown restrictions from Thursday (July 9), however, tourists will face stringent rules in hotels, restaurants and on beaches. The government also established guidelines for reopening tourist spots and may close certain areas again if infections spike.

Earlier on Monday (July 6), Bali Governor I Wayan Koster announced a three-step plan to reopen public and business facilities in compliance with the so-called “new normal” policies as the island prepares to welcome international travelers from September 11, 2020.

In regards to COVID-19 transmission in Indonesia, cases of infection are still rising and the country has reported a total number of 70,736 confirmed cases which are under treatment and 3,417 patients have lost their lives due to virus. However, 32,651 patients who tested positive to COVID-19 have completely recovered from the virus, as of Friday (July 10).