Parandur airport project to be dropped by Tamil Nadu government, announces CM Vijay
Alternative places identified; Terminal 5 to come up at Chennai Airport
On August 24, 2026, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay announced the decision to abandon the proposed airport at Parandur, instead designating alternative sites for a new Chennai airport. In a suo motu statement to the Assembly, Vijay outlined plans for a new Terminal 5 in the northwestern part of Chennai airport, along with an approach road and a flyover.
The Opposition DMK attempted to speak on the matter, but Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar denied their request for a debate, citing the announcement's status under Rule 110 of the Assembly. Former Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu sought a clarification, but the DMK members ultimately walked out in protest.
Vijay emphasized that a few alternative sites had been identified that would not cause significant damage to farmland or human settlements. He indicated that the final site would be determined after assessing technical feasibility and consulting relevant departments. Chennai airport currently accommodates 30 million passengers annually, and Terminal 3's completion will boost capacity to 35 million.
Upon the inauguration of Terminal 5, passenger volume is projected to rise by an additional 55 million per year, enhancing services and transport infrastructure until a new airport is constructed.
Vijay acknowledged the importance of airports in industrial growth but affirmed that an airport should not be built at Parandur due to its detrimental impact on extensive farmland and human settlements. He criticized the previous administration's decision to pursue a new airport at the expense of farmers' lands and communities.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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