Parandur Airport Project on Track: ‘In-Principle’ Approval Expected by February

The much-anticipated second airport for Chennai, planned at Parandur, is likely to receive ‘in-principle’ approval by February 2025. Estimated at a cost of ₹29,144 crore, this project aims to bolster Chennai’s connectivity and address increasing passenger traffic, akin to the growing aviation infrastructure in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

After deciding on the second airport in 2022, Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) achieved a significant milestone with site clearance granted in July 2024. TIDCO subsequently applied for ‘in-principle’ approval, and sources confirm that the process is progressing smoothly. “We foresee no major issues and anticipate receiving approval early next year,” a source noted.

Spanning 2,172.73 hectares, the Parandur airport project will be executed in four phases. Post-approval, TIDCO will issue tenders for Phase 1 construction. Land acquisition is advancing steadily, with initial notifications issued. Efforts are also underway to ensure the smooth rehabilitation of residents to nearby areas, though this aspect requires considerable time and planning, according to officials.

In parallel, TIDCO is conducting Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environment Management Plan (EMP) studies. These are prerequisites for obtaining the Terms of Reference (ToR) from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). These studies form part of several comprehensive reports required for environmental clearance.

The Parandur airport is poised to significantly enhance Chennai’s infrastructure, positioning it as a key aviation hub in India. Upon completion, the project is expected to meet the city’s growing demand and boost economic development in the region.