"Tamil Nadu Government Approves Acquisition of 3,774 Acres of Patta Land for Greenfield Airport in Chennai"

The Tamil Nadu government has given the green light for the acquisition of 3,774.01 acres of patta land in Parandur and 19 other villages in Kancheepuram district to establish a greenfield airport for Chennai. The move, outlined in a Government Order, also includes clearance for the alienation of 1,972.12 acres of government lands in the affected villages for the airport project.

However, this decision has faced staunch opposition from the people likely to be displaced, leading to protests. Villagers, supported by environmental activists, gathered at the Kancheepuram collectorate to voice their opposition and urged the government to reconsider the acquisition of their patta lands.

The proposed greenfield airport, estimated to cost around INR 20,000 crore, aims to address the increasing air connectivity needs for passenger transportation and cargo movement in and out of the state. The government justifies the project as a strategic imperative for economic growth, industrial development, tourism, healthcare, logistics, and e-commerce.

The order emphasizes the forecasted growth in air passenger traffic for the Chennai region, expected to reach 50 million by 2037. According to the projections, Chennai International Airport will reach saturation by 2028, necessitating the operation of a new airport or expansion of the existing facility.

The proposed airport is intended to enhance facilities for handling domestic and international passengers and cargo, contributing to economic growth through increased tourism and business travel. The choice of the Parandur site is based on feasibility studies conducted by the Airport Authority of India, indicating airspace availability, fewer natural obstructions, and proximity to the upcoming Chennai-Bengaluru expressway.

While the government underscores the benefits of the project, including its impact on economic growth and improved transportation capabilities, local opposition continues, emphasizing concerns about displacement and environmental impact.

ET