Telaga Tunjung Dam: Human Work that Unites with Nature
The Telaga Tunjung Dam, located in Kerambitan District, Tabanan Regency, Bali, is a crucial infrastructure supporting Bali's traditional irrigation system, known as subak. This dam plays a key role in regulating water supply for rice fields and helping to prevent floods. It also reflects the philosophy of Tri Hita Karana by integrating modern technology with local wisdom, thereby maintaining a balance between development and environmental preservation.
Telaga Tunjung Dam, located in the Kerambitan District, Tabanan Regency, Bali, is one of the important infrastructures designed to support Bali's traditional irrigation system, known as subak. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage, the subak system plays a vital role in sustaining rice farming, which is a distinctive feature of Bali's landscape. This dam functions as a reservoir and water regulator to irrigate the surrounding agricultural lands. Additionally, it serves as a flood control solution that can otherwise damage farmland. This dual function makes Telaga Tunjung Dam a crucial element in supporting the welfare of the local community, most of whom depend on agriculture for their livelihood.
Water Flow at Telaga Tunjung Dam (Photo Source: Personal Collection)
Beyond its role as a vital infrastructure, Telaga Tunjung Dam is also known for its captivating natural beauty. Although the water in the dam tends to be murky due to its function as the main reservoir for the river flow, the surrounding scenery remains an undeniable attraction. Expansive green rice fields and lush hillsides encircle the dam, creating a soothing natural landscape. Especially in the morning, the thin mist that blankets the area adds to the magical atmosphere of the place. The peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal destination for tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. With all the beauty of its landscape, Telaga Tunjung Dam has great potential to be developed into a nature tourism destination that supports relaxation and tranquility.
Scenery at Telaga Tunjung Dam (Photo Source: Personal Collection)
Telaga Tunjung Dam is also a tangible representation of the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of harmony between humans, nature, and God. This philosophy is reflected in the dam's function, which not only supports the economic needs of the local community but also preserves the sustainability of the environment and local culture. For example, the dam plays a role in the conservation of the subak system, which is a real example of the Balinese community's local wisdom in managing natural resources wisely and sustainably. The synergy between modern technology used in the dam's construction and the traditional values of the Balinese people demonstrates that infrastructure development does not have to harm the ecosystem, but can instead become part of the solution to preserve nature and culture.
Infrastructure at Telaga Tunjung Dam (Photo Source: Personal Collection)
More than just an infrastructure, Telaga Tunjung Dam holds great potential to be developed into an engaging educational tourism site. Visitors can learn how the subak system, passed down through generations in Bali, works, as well as the important role this dam plays in supporting the continuity of this irrigation system. Educational tourism that involves understanding water management, agriculture, and environmental conservation can enhance public awareness of the importance of balancing development with nature preservation. With proper management, Telaga Tunjung Dam will not only continue to provide long-term benefits for the community and its surrounding ecosystem but also become a symbol of pride for Bali, a region rich in natural beauty, local wisdom, and environmental conservation awareness.
