Farmers, water bodies: Why has CM Vijay dropped 2nd Chennai airport plan, for now

Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin criticised the state government's decision to abandon the Parandur airport project, stating it marks an irreversible setback for the region's development. In a social media post, Stalin emphasized that the State's growth could be delayed by several years and warned that the decision jeopardises Tamil Nadu's position as a leader in sectors such as electronics exports and automobiles.

The former Chief Minister stressed that a world-class airport in Chennai was not only desirable but essential, and rejected the idea that dropping such a crucial project represents a change. Stalin noted that the site had been meticulously selected after evaluating all available alternatives, and significant progress had already been made on land acquisition and preparatory work.

He also highlighted the potential economic impact of the project, warning that without industrial growth, Tamil Nadu would struggle to achieve ambitious economic targets. DMK leader Thangam Thennarasu backed Stalin's stance, accusing the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam-led government of abandoning the project for political reasons. Thennarasu claimed the DMK had proposed to acquire 5,740 acres for the Parandur airport, with 90% of the land already secured, and that the villagers had largely agreed to the terms.

However, the Speaker of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly cancelled a planned debate on the issue, citing Rule 110.