The Centre has granted in-principle approval for the ₹20,000 crore Parandur Greenfield Airport, a significant infrastructure project aimed at alleviating congestion at Chennai International Airport (MAA).
However, the approval comes with stringent conditions concerning land acquisition, environmental impact, and operational timelines. The proposed airport, located approximately 60 km west of Chennai, is designed to handle up to 100 million passengers annually upon completion. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has stipulated that the Tamil Nadu government must ensure that Chennai Airport reaches its full capacity of 35 million passengers per annum before Parandur becomes operational. If Parandur commences operations prematurely, the state is required to compensate AAI for potential revenue losses .
The Tamil Nadu government has agreed to these terms, acknowledging the need for coordinated development between the two airports to meet the growing regional demand for air connectivity. Additionally, the state has committed to acquiring 3,774.01 acres of land, including private and government-owned properties, to facilitate the project . Environmental concerns have been raised regarding the project’s impact on local ecosystems. The proposed site encompasses agricultural land and water bodies, including Nelvoy Lake, which is integral to the area’s hydrology. Environmentalists warn that the construction could disrupt groundwater recharge and exacerbate flooding risks . In response, the state has pledged to implement mitigation measures, such as preserving water bodies and enhancing groundwater recharge capabilities.
The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) has also recommended that the state optimize the airport’s aeronautical infrastructure to align with international standards and control operational costs. The first phase of the Parandur Airport is slated for completion by 2028, with subsequent phases extending until 2046 . As the project progresses, it will be crucial to balance infrastructural development with environmental sustainability and community welfare. The successful implementation of Parandur Airport could serve as a model for future greenfield airport projects in India.
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