Bali Launches Electric Trans Sarbagita Buses on November 9 to Promote Greener Public Transport

A New Chapter for Public Transportation in Bali

Bali has taken another step towards more sustainable mobility with the launch of its electric Trans Sarbagita bus service on Monday, November 9, 2026. The Bali Provincial Government has introduced the new fleet to provide a cleaner and more comfortable public transportation option for residents and visitors travelling across parts of the island.

The service operates along Corridor I, connecting GOR Ngurah Rai in Denpasar with Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) in Jimbaran, South Kuta. The Launch was officially marked by Bali Governor Wayan Koster at the GOR Ngurah Rai area in Denpasar.

Free Rides to Encourage Public Transport Use

One of the most attractive features of the new services is its free-fare policy. Governor Wayan Koster announced that passengers would be able to use the electric buses without paying a fare for at least one year, with the operating coast temporarily covered by the Bali Provincial Government.

The initiative is designed to encourage more people to leave their private vehicles at home and consider public transportation for everyday journeys. It also gives visitors an opportunity to explore parts of Bali using a more environmentally friendly transport option.

The service promotes three key principles: zero emissions, zero noise and zero rupiah for passengers. Although the rides are free, passengers are still required to tap an electronic money card when boarding. This system allows the transport authority to monitor passenger numbers and evaluate demand. Passengers without an e-money card can ask for assistance from staff on board.

Route Connects Denpasar with the GWK Tourist Area

The electric buses follow the general route of the existing Trans Sarbagita Corridor I, although several adjustments have been made to the journey. From GOR Ngurah Rai, buses travel along Jalan Melati and Jalan Hayam Wuruk before reaching the Renon roundabout. They then pass through Jalan Raya Puputan and Jalan Sudirman before continuing along the regular Trans Sarbagita route towards GWK.

For the return journey from GWK to GOR Ngurah Rai, buses take a slightly different route through Jalan Cok Agung Tresna, Jalan Moh. Yamin, Jalan Puputan, Jalan Hayam Wuruk, Jalan Kamboja, Jalan Angsoka and Jalan Melati, before reaching Jalan Pattimura.

Passengers can board and leave the buses at designated stops along the route. Travellers are encouraged to check the latest stop locations and service information before setting out.

Eleven Electric Buses Support the New Service

A total of 11 electric buses have been provided for the programme. Ten are scheduled to operate daily, while one remains on standby as a replacement when required. The service is operated by DAMRI's Denpasar branch under the supervision of the Bali Provincial Transportation Agency.

The fleet is part of the Bali e-Mobility project, developed through cooperation between the Indonesian Government, the Bali Provincial Government and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), with support from the Government of the Republic of Korea. The project also includes six fast-charging units and a fleet management system.

What This Means for Bali’s Tourism Future

As one of Indonesia’s most visited destinations, Bali faces growing pressure to improve its transport infrastructure while reducing the environmental impact of tourism. Expanding electric public transport could help address both priorities by offering an alternative to conventional vehicles and supporting cleaner urban mobility.

For travelers, the new Trans Sarbagita service adds another option for moving between Denpasar nad the southern part of Bali. However, visitors should remember that the bus follows a fixed route and designated stops, so private transfers may still be more practical for destinations outside its corridor.

The launch marks an important step in Bali’s wider effort to develop a more modern, accessible and environmentally responsible public transportation network.