Will Bengaluru Get Its Second International Airport Soon?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- AAI's report expected soon.
- Potential locations include Tumakuru and South Bengaluru.
- Financial feasibility will be assessed.
- Construction could take five to six years.
- Current regulations impact new airport developments.
Bengaluru, Oct 23 (NationPress) The Minister for Large and Medium Industries in Karnataka, M. B. Patil, announced on Thursday that the expert team from the Airports Authority of India (AAI), which recently assessed potential locations for Bengaluru's second international airport, is anticipated to deliver its report in the coming two to three days.
Upon receiving the report, it will be presented to the Cabinet for deliberation before any final decisions are made, the Minister added.
While addressing the media in Bengaluru, Patil noted that there is a chance that the AAI team might endorse both sites it investigated.
However, he emphasized that airport construction firms would also look into the financial viability of the suggested sites.
"It's not that they (AAI) will construct the airport wherever the government allocates land," Patil remarked.
Moreover, he highlighted that the state government has initiated this process with consideration to a clause that forbids the establishment of another international airport within a 150 km radius of Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) until 2033.
"If we start the groundwork now, the second international airport could be operational by then. Projects of this magnitude typically take a minimum of five to six years to finish," he stated.
Currently, only two cities in India — New Delhi (Noida) and Mumbai (Navi Mumbai) — boast two international airports.
"We will also engage with companies involved in the development of those airports," Patil said, adding that the state government is cognizant of Tamil Nadu's plans to build an airport in Hosur, near the Karnataka border.
Regarding potential locations, the Minister mentioned that MLAs from North Karnataka have proposed Tumakuru as a viable site, while others have suggested South Bengaluru.
"However, factors such as passenger density, industrial needs, and several other considerations will play a role. Ultimately, the decision will be made based on merit, focusing on convenience and future demand," Patil concluded.