Chennai: The Tamil Nadu government has decided to shelve the proposed greenfield airport project at Parandur in Kancheepuram district. The decision comes after concerns over the impact on fertile farmland and important waterbodies in the region.
Minister for Energy Resources and Law C T R Nirmal Kumar announced that the government will not proceed with the project at the proposed site. Instead, authorities will identify an alternative location for Chennai’s second airport.
Government Prioritizes Environment and Agriculture
The minister stated that while the government supports development, it cannot allow the destruction of agricultural land and water resources. Moreover, he noted that the Parandur region produces crops three times a year, making it a highly fertile agricultural zone. He also said the decision was taken in consultation with Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay.
Land Acquisition and Project Scale
According to official sources, around 1,700 acres of private land had already been acquired across 12 villages in Sriperumbudur and Kancheepuram taluks. In addition, compensation has reportedly been paid to over 90% of landowners, while remaining payments are still being processed. The proposed airport was planned across 5,746 acres and estimated to cost ₹27,400 crore.
Strong Opposition from Local Residents
The project faced strong opposition from local communities. Residents raised concerns over displacement, loss of livelihoods, and environmental damage. Furthermore, protests continued for more than 1,000 days in villages such as Ekanapuram, which was excluded from land acquisition.
Environmental Concerns Over Wetlands
Experts and activists had also warned that the project could affect waterbodies and increase flood risks in Chennai. As a result, environmental impact concerns played a key role in the government’s decision to reconsider the project site.
Future Plans for Chennai Airport
Tamil Nadu government has decided to shelve the Parandur greenfield airport project, citing protection of fertile farmland and waterbodies, and will explore an alternative site.
The Airports Authority of India had earlier shortlisted Parandur and Pannur as potential sites for Chennai’s second airport in 2022. However, the government has now confirmed that a new location will be identified for the project.