New Wings for Chennai: Parandur Airport Gets Official Clearance

Chennai is set to welcome a second airport in Parandur, with the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation granting in-principle approval for the ambitious ₹20,000-crore greenfield project. While the move marks a major milestone in enhancing Chennai’s aviation capacity, it also intensifies the spotlight on ongoing land acquisition protests in the region.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu announced the approval, calling it part of a larger national push to manage the rising air traffic in metropolitan cities. “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi, second airports are being developed in major metros like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai to accommodate increasing passenger demand,” he posted on X.

A Vision for the Future – But at What Cost?

Located around 70 km from Chennai city, the Parandur airport aims to ease the burden on the overcrowded Chennai International Airport. The Tamil Nadu government had previously cleared the way for acquiring more than 2,325 hectares (5,746 acres) across 13 villages in the Kanchipuram and Sriperumbudur taluks.

However, resistance from local residents has intensified as the project reaches a symbolic juncture — 1,000 days of protest in Ekanapuram village on April 20. The upcoming milestone highlights the community's deep-rooted concerns over displacement, livelihood loss, and environmental impact.

Land Acquisition Moves Forward

With the Centre’s nod secured, the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) is preparing to begin the land acquisition process. Of the total land required, 3,774 acres are patta (privately owned) while 1,972 acres belong to the government.

Officials note that compensation packages are being negotiated under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. The compensation value, reportedly revised to better reflect market realities, is estimated to range between ₹1,549 crore and ₹1,822 crore.

While the project promises to transform the state’s infrastructure and create thousands of jobs, the road ahead may still be turbulent as stakeholders work to balance development with social and environmental responsibilities.