Hosur Airport Project Gains Momentum: Tamil Nadu Likely to Begin Land Acquisition in 3 Months

Though the proposed airport at Hosur in Tamil Nadu is now moving closer to reality, as the land acquisition is likely to begin within the next three months. A consultant appointed by the State government submitted the Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) survey for two of the shortlisted sites, and final site selection should occur within the next six weeks.

The two potential locations include one roughly 1.5 km from the existing TAAL (Taneja Aerospace and Aviation Limited) airstrip and another situated about 15.5 km east of Hosur, near Shoolagiri. While both sites are deemed feasible, strong initiatives from the OLS survey indicate great challenges posed by undulating terrain and several physical obstacles.

“Both sites would need mitigation measures, but are technically viable,” said a source in the project to Build Watch. “Final choice shall depend on the comparative evaluation of merits and demerits for each site.”

TAAL has, earlier on, evinced interest in forming a joint-venture partnership with the State for the airport, although the talks remain in early stages. “It’s a bit early to commit to a partnership. It all depends on which site the government chooses,” the source added.

Simultaneously, the State has approached the Ministry of Defence seeking clearance to establish a separate air control zone for the project, an essential procedure towards regulatory clearance. The reply is expected in the next two months. One more key meeting on account of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is also on cards.

Hosur, a well-known area in automotive and electronics manufacturing, anticipated enhanced air connectivity. The landing of newly industrialized investments is greatly considered as an infrastructure boost that would hasten the growth of the area.

This is to say, one year after that announcement, after several studies and survey rounds, it is now getting closer to location selection before taking a giant step into the next phase.