The Story So Far
The second airport project for Chennai at Parandur is nearing final approval after more than three years since its announcement.
Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu expects in-principle approval within the next two weeks.
There has been ongoing opposition from villagers, farmers, and environmentalists for the past three years.
Does Chennai Need a Second Airport?
The idea of a second airport in Chennai was first proposed in 1998.
The State government began the process in 1999, with land earmarked near Meenambakkam for the airport.
Plans for a massive airport at Sriperumbudur in 2007 were abandoned.
In 2022, Parandur was selected as the site for the second airport, which will cost ₹29,144 crore, be built in four phases, and handle 100 million passengers.
Why is There Opposition?
Many oppose the project due to its location, which includes several water bodies and wetlands.
13 villages will be displaced, and farmers face uncertainty about losing their lands.
Ekanapuram villagers have been protesting daily for over 950 days.
Environmentalists warn that 26.54% of the site is wetlands, and disturbing these could lead to severe flooding in Chennai, especially during monsoons.
The Kamban canal connects several water bodies, and its disruption could cause flooding.
A hydrogeological report on mitigating flooding has been submitted but remains confidential, increasing concerns.
What is the Status of the Airport Now?
Land acquisition and required environmental surveys are ongoing.
The major challenge is obtaining environmental clearance due to the wetlands on the site.
If approval is granted by the end of the year or early next year, construction of the terminals may begin.
The first phase is expected to be completed and operational by the end of 2028.
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