Bengaluru's Second Airport: Tumkur Gains Favor, But Bidadi Not Ruled Out

In a recent statement, Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara reiterated the state's commitment to establishing Bengaluru's second international airport in Tumkur district. He stressed that while the state strongly supports this location, the final decision rests with the Central Government.

Speaking in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Parameshwara remarked, "There has been extensive discussion regarding the location of the second international airport, and we firmly believe that Tumkur is the ideal site. However, the final call will be taken by the Centre."

The debate over possible locations for the second Bengaluru International airport has been intensified by interest from various regions. Parameshwara noted that the Tamil Nadu government is pushing for an airport in Hosur and has submitted a proposal for consideration.

Highlighting the urgent need for a second airport, he stressed how Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) is struggling to keep up with the surge in passenger traffic. "What used to be a quick 35-minute drive now drags on for nearly two hours because of heavy congestion. With international flights increasing rapidly, the demand for a second airport has never been more critical," he said.

A report by Moneycontrol says three locations have been selected for the second Bengaluru Airport are Solur (situated between Nelamangala and Kunigal), Harohalli (along Kanakapura Road), and Bidadi (on Mysuru Road).

Dr. Parameshwara compared Bengaluru to Mumbai and Delhi, both of which have multiple international airports. He argued that as a major hub, Bengaluru also deserves a second airport to facilitate the state's economic growth.

While Tumkur is the government's preferred site, Parameshwara acknowledged that no final decision has been reached. He referred to earlier discussions about Bidadi as a potential airport location and suggested that it could be reconsidered.