Bengaluru's Second Airport Location Nears Finalisation, Tumakuru-Kunigal Site In Focus

Karnataka's Industries Minister MB Patil announced that preparations for establishing a second airport on the outskirts of Bengaluru are on the fast track. In a significant development, Patil held another round of discussions today with Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and senior officials from key departments to expedite the process.

As Bengaluru's air travel demand continues to rise, the state government is actively working towards finalising the location for the city's second international airport. Kunigal, a town along National Highway 75, has emerged as the leading candidate for the new airport, with the area between Dabaspet and Kunigal identified after a comprehensive review.

Earlier in the day, Home Minister G. Parameshwara confirmed that the second airport is likely to be located in the Dobbaspet, close to Tumakuru-Kunigal area. He emphasized the industrial growth in Tumakuru, noting, "Asia's largest industrial area is being developed in Tumakuru, spanning over 20,000 acres. The first and second phases are complete, with 150 industries and a Japan Township underway. HAL's helicopter factory has also commenced operations, and more large-scale industries are expected. Given these developments, establishing an airport would be ideal."

Parameshwara also revealed the state's push for the new airport, adding, "We have requested the new airport for the area, and I understand it is under consideration. With such a large number of industries, there is a significant need for an airport. We have also proposed extending the metro rail to Tumakuru to enhance connectivity."

Tumakuru is poised for significant growth as part of Bengaluru's expanding metropolitan area. Discussions are underway to consider Tumakuru as 'Greater Bengaluru,' with the city already extending to Nelamangala and Dabaspet. A formal proposal for the metro rail extension to Tumakuru will be submitted to the government soon, Parameshwara noted.

With major infrastructure projects like the new airport and metro expansion in the pipeline, Tumakuru is set to become a key industrial and transport hub in Karnataka, driving growth and connectivity for years to come.