Bengaluru: Karnataka’s ambitious plan to build a second international airport for Bengaluru has received renewed attention after the Tamil Nadu government decided to drop its proposed greenfield airport project at Parandur near Chennai.
While Tamil Nadu cited unsuitable land conditions for abandoning the project, Karnataka is continuing technical and financial studies before finalising the site for Bengaluru’s second airport.
Chennai drops Parandur airport project
The Tamil Nadu government has decided not to proceed with the proposed 4,970-acre Parandur Greenfield Airport, stating that the identified land contains extensive water bodies, making it unsuitable for runway construction.
The project had faced strong opposition since 2022 from farmers and environmental groups over concerns related to land acquisition, displacement and the destruction of ecologically sensitive wetlands.
Industries Minister Nirmal Kumar said the government would now identify an alternative location for Chennai’s second airport.
The decision also fulfils an election promise made by Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, who had assured villagers that their homes and farmlands would not be acquired for the project.
Karnataka pushes ahead with second airport
Unlike Tamil Nadu, Karnataka is moving forward with plans for a second airport to ease congestion at Kempegowda International Airport and support the city’s long-term growth.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has directed officials to identify a suitable site in Bengaluru South district, while ensuring minimal displacement of residents and lower land acquisition costs.
Several locations, including Choodahalli, Somanahalli, Harohalli and areas along the Kanakapura Road corridor, have been inspected by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Final location yet to be decided
The Karnataka government has not yet finalised the airport location and will wait for a detailed technical feasibility report before submitting its proposal to the AAI.
A Singapore-based consultancy has been appointed to carry out technical assessments, while KPMG has been tasked with preparing the financial feasibility study.
The proposed airport is expected to require around 3,500 acres of land, with the government emphasising that the project should minimise displacement and balance infrastructure development with environmental and social considerations.
If approved, Bengaluru’s second airport is expected to strengthen air connectivity, accommodate future passenger growth and support the city’s expanding economy.