Karnataka’s Infrastructure Minister M B Patil announced the shortlisting of two sites for the proposed second airport in Bengaluru, on Saturday. The final proposal will be sent to the Airport Authority of India (AAI) before February 17.
The shortlisted sites, Nelamangala and Kanakapura Road were selected after careful consideration, with Patil emphasizing that the decision would be based solely on merit and not influenced by politics.
“There is no confusion regarding the second airport. We have narrowed down the options from four sites and have already briefed the Chief Minister. We will have another round of discussions, and then we plan to send the proposal to the Airport Authority of India, either before or just after the Global Investors Meet,” Patil said.
Patil ensures that the selection process is being closely monitored by him and the decision would be made on the long term interests of the Bengaluru. The state government is going to bear the cost to acquire land estimated to be Rs 10,000 crore.
“While the AAI will ultimately assess the suitability of the proposed sites, the state government will take the final call, ensuring that all factors, including viability for investors, are considered,” Patil explained.
Devanahalli which is currently Bengaluru International Airport is expected to reach 100 million passengers capacity by 2030. Due to the exclusive clause of the Devanahalli airport expiring by 2033, the new airport preparations are planned to start early to ensure timely completion.
“The need for a second airport is urgent, and if we begin now, it will take about seven to eight years for construction,” the minister noted.
Though some local leaders have voiced their preferences for locations like Tumakuru, Patil reiterated that the final decision would be based on a thorough assessment of all factors. “We will consider all parameters and make the yardsticks for our decision public once the site is finalized,” he added.
(With PTI Inputs)