Bengaluru Second Airport: Tumakuru, Ramanagara Site Lead In Location Race To Beat Hosur Plans

The Karnataka government is expediting its plans for a second international airport in Bengaluru to address growing criticism over delays and counter competition from Tamil Nadu's proposed greenfield airport at Hosur, located just 35 km from the city.

Initially, a study by consulting firm Idec identified seven potential sites, but the project faced delays due to disagreements among ministers and distractions caused by byelections and assembly polls in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. Now, with these elections concluding, the site selection process is back on track, according to infrastructure department (ID) officials.

Finalising Bengaluru second airport Location

Infrastructure Minister MB Patil, expected to return from poll duty this week, will oversee the final phases of site selection. "Preliminary preparations are on track. The shortlist is down to three sites, and a detailed analysis of their pros and cons is underway. A proposal will be sent to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) soon," said an official.

Competition from Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu's plans for a greenfield airport in Hosur have added urgency to Karnataka's proposal. The IT-BT Minister and government spokesperson Priyank Kharge emphasized, "Our government is mindful of the fierce competition from Tamil Nadu. The process to finalize a location is being expedited. There will be no delay."

In August, the Karnataka government shortlisted seven potential locations but faced internal disagreements:
- Home Minister G Parameshwara, representing Koratagere, advocated for Tumakuru.
- Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar preferred sites in Ramanagara, including Bidadi and Harohalli.

Experts, however, suggest a southern Bengaluru location to reduce traffic congestion at the city's existing airport in the north. Shivakumar's proposal for a skydeck in Hemmigepura has further complicated the selection process, as the skydeck could interfere with air traffic zones near Bidadi or Harohalli.

To address these concerns, the government sought public feedback. BBMP chief engineer M Lokesh revealed, "Over 300 suggestions have been received. We are open to considering alternative locations for the skydeck and will finalize decisions soon."

The government is expected to submit its proposal to AAI later this week, setting the stage for a decisive step toward Bengaluru's second international airport. As Karnataka accelerates efforts, it aims to maintain Bengaluru's strategic edge in the region, ensuring the city's infrastructure meets its growing demands.