TVK govt will scrap Parandur airport plan: CM

Chennai (Tamil Nadu): Chief Minister Joseph Vijay of Tamil Nadu announced on Monday that his government will abandon plans to establish a new airport at Parandur, citing concerns over its impact on agricultural land and the livelihoods of farmers and residents. Addressing the Assembly, Vijay highlighted Chennai's Meenambakkam airport, currently managed by the Airports Authority of India, has a capacity for 30 million passengers annually.

He emphasized the need for a new airport due to the city's growing requirements, industrial expansion, and rising cargo transportation. However, the Chief Minister stressed that the new airport should be situated in an area where agricultural land and residential zones are minimally affected. Vijay visited Eganapuram and other villages on January 20, 2025, to hear the grievances of protesters against the proposed airport at Parandur and its surrounding villages.

He affirmed his staunch support for the protesters, stating that farmers are the backbone of the nation and he stands firmly with them in their efforts to safeguard their agricultural land. The Chief Minister had previously opposed the Parandur airport project at a public meeting in Vikravandi in October 2024, while acknowledging his support for industrial development and the role of airports.

However, he reiterated that this specific project should not be located in Parandur, urging the government to reconsider its placement and identify an alternative site with minimal impact on agriculture and people's livelihoods. He mentioned that detailed consultations were held with senior officials and experts regarding the establishment of a new airport.

In April 2025, the Civil Aviation Ministry had granted the in-Principle approval for setting up an International Greenfield Airport at Parandur, located in Kancheepuram District.