Preparations are underway for the construction of another international airport for Bengaluru, a rapidly growing metropolis. Taking a significant step in this direction, the state government has formally proposed to the central government the allocation of 4,500 acres of land. The need for a new airport is being felt due to the continuously increasing passenger load at the existing Kempegowda International Airport. In this regard, three locations have been shortlisted as potential sites.
Kaggalipura, Harohalli, and Chikkasoolur are Potential Options
According to a Times of India report, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) inspected three locations near Bengaluru in April. These places include Kaggalipura, Harohalli, and Chikkasoolur. All three locations are situated approximately 25 to 45 kilometers from the center of Bengaluru city.
Kaggalipura and Harohalli are both located on Kanakapura Road.
Meanwhile, Chikkasoolur is located near Nelamangala-Kunigal Road.
Currently, the final report from AAI is awaited, after which further proceedings will begin.
State Minister to Meet with Union Minister
State Minister for Industries and Infrastructure Development, MB Patil, is soon to meet with Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu. This meeting will discuss moving forward with the proposal for the new airport. It is believed that the process may gain momentum after receiving a positive response from the central government.
Competition from Hosur, Tamil Nadu
However, another major challenge has arisen for this airport project. The Tamil Nadu government is also working on a plan to build an international airport in the Hosur region of its state. Two potential locations have been identified there as well. But the Hosur airport will require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), which is considered difficult to obtain.
Land Acquisition Could Become a Major Issue
Even though governments are enthusiastic about building a second airport in Bengaluru, land acquisition could become the biggest hurdle in the path of this project. All the areas that have been chosen are either cultivable land or areas adjacent to populated regions. This could not only lengthen the acquisition process but also face opposition.
Experts Express Opinion: Airport Should be Near Mysuru
An aviation analyst believes that building an airport between Bengaluru and Mysuru would be more practical. This would not only improve regional air connectivity but also benefit industrial areas such as Mysuru, Ramanagar, and Channapatna. Additionally, it could reduce the passenger load on the existing Kempegowda Airport.
Bengaluru Air Traffic Continues to Increase
Bengaluru's existing Kempegowda International Airport is counted among the busiest airports in the country. Thousands of flights take off and land from here every day. In the past few years, the number of passengers here has increased at a rate of 12 to 15 percent. It is estimated that this figure could double in the next 5 years. In such a situation, the need for another international airport cannot be denied.
BIAL's Exclusive Operation Agreement Could Also Become an Obstacle
According to sources, as per the agreement between Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) and the government, BIAL has the exclusive right to prevent the construction of another airport in this region until 2033. Legal obstacles may arise for the new project due to this condition. However, the government is confident that any agreement can be reviewed in the national interest.
Government Claims: Land Identified, Preliminary Survey Completed
The Karnataka government claims that 4,500 acres of land have already been identified and a survey has also been completed at the preliminary level. However, until the final report from AAI arrives and the central government grants permission, the project cannot be officially formalized.
Bengaluru's Growing Role as a Business Hub
Bengaluru's role as an IT and startup hub is continuously increasing. In international travel and cargo traffic as well, Bengaluru is now starting to compete with Delhi-Mumbai. In such a situation, new air connectivity and convenient infrastructure have become a necessity for this city.
Now Eyes on the Central Government's Decision
The state government's preparations are said to be complete. Now, all eyes are on the central government and the AAI report, after which it will be decided when and where Bengaluru will get its second international airport.
