The development of Chennai’s second airport at Parandur is set to move forward, with Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu confirming that a special meeting will soon be held in New Delhi to discuss the “in-principle approval” requested by the Tamil Nadu government. The announcement was made on Thursday, February 27, signaling progress in the long-awaited project aimed at easing congestion at Chennai International Airport.
The proposed greenfield airport at Parandur is expected to enhance air connectivity and accommodate the growing passenger traffic in Tamil Nadu. However, the project has encountered significant resistance from local villagers and farmers, who fear displacement and the loss of fertile land. Protests and demands for alternative solutions have been ongoing, with affected communities urging authorities to consider their concerns before proceeding.
Despite the opposition, the Tamil Nadu government remains committed to pushing the project forward, citing the need for a second airport to support Chennai’s economic growth and aviation demands. The upcoming meeting in New Delhi is expected to address key concerns, including land acquisition, environmental impact, and compensation for affected residents.
If approved, the Parandur airport will play a crucial role in boosting regional development, improving air traffic management, and strengthening Chennai’s position as a major aviation hub. However, balancing infrastructure expansion with the concerns of local communities remains a key challenge for policymakers.