Kannur Airport Runway Expansion: Kerala Government to Fast-Track Land Acquisition

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has assured that land acquisition for the expansion of Kannur International Airport’s runway will be expedited. The ambitious project aims to extend the runway to 4,000 meters, enhancing the airport’s capacity to handle larger aircraft and increasing its strategic importance in the region.

The acquisition involves 245.32 acres across Keezhalur and Kanad, with the valuation of agricultural crops, trees, and existing structures nearing completion. While an 11(1) notification was issued back in October 2018, the process of releasing a 19(1) notification will commence once the compensation fund is deposited in the District Collector’s account. This marks a significant step in ensuring that landowners receive fair compensation and the project proceeds without legal hurdles.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the government is actively arranging the necessary funds to support the acquisition and rehabilitation process. In addition, authorities are considering extending the 2008 rehabilitation package to cover the current acquisition phase, despite amendments to land acquisition laws in 2013. The move aims to provide equitable compensation and support for displaced families, aligning with the state’s commitment to social justice and sustainable development.

CPI(M) leaders, along with the Landowners Action Committee and MLA KK Shailaja, have submitted petitions urging faster execution of the acquisition process. The government has acknowledged these concerns and is prioritizing swift action to ensure the airport expansion remains on schedule.

A detailed valuation statement is currently being prepared as part of the next phase of the project, ensuring transparency and accuracy in assessing the value of the acquired land. Once completed, the extended runway is expected to significantly boost air traffic, attract new airlines, and support economic growth in northern Kerala.

With this development, Kannur International Airport is poised to become a key aviation hub in the state, supporting tourism, trade, and regional connectivity while setting a benchmark for infrastructure planning and execution in Kerala.