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Bengaluru is one of the busiest cities in India, and its main airport, Kempegowda International Airport, is facing heavy traffic due to the growing number of passengers. To reduce congestion and improve connectivity, the government has decided to build a second international airport. However, the project has now become a topic of political disagreement and public concern, as leaders and citizens debate where the new airport should be built.
Political disagreement over airport location
The Congress-led state government has proposed several locations for the second airport, including Kanakapura Road, Bidadi, and Tumkur. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is currently assessing the feasibility of three shortlisted sites. However, BJP Union Minister V. Somanna has criticized the way the state government is handling the project. He has strongly suggested that the airport should be built in Tumkur district, especially in Shira.
V. Somanna's statement is supported by Congress MLA TB Jayachandra, showing agreement between leaders from different parties. Somanna said that 34 MLAs and TB Jayachandra gave him petitions supporting the Shira location. He submitted these to the Union Civil Aviation Minister, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu. Somanna also suggested Bukkapatna near Shira as an ideal site, as it has around 4,000 acres of land and is free from major geographical problems. Since Bukkapatna falls within Somanna's Lok Sabha constituency, he promised to continue pushing for this location.
Resistance from farmers in Nelamangala
Meanwhile, the government has been conducting surveys near Nelamangala to check its suitability for the airport. However, local farmers and residents have strongly opposed this plan. They are worried about losing fertile land and being forced to leave their homes. The local MLA has promised full support to the farmers, even if it means losing his own position in the assembly. A petition has also been sent to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has assured the public that their concerns will be heard.
Shift in focus to alternative sites
Due to the protests in Nelamangala and changes in political opinions, the focus is now shifting to other locations. The AAI is now considering areas on Kanakapura Road and the Nelamangala-Kunigal Road. Tumkur, which was once an option, has been ruled out due to lack of public support for the airport there. Industries Minister M.B. Patil has confirmed that Bidadi is no longer in the race, and officials are now looking at areas near Harohalli in Kanakapura and near Kunigal.
A big decision ahead
The final decision on the location will be made by the central government. With many opinions, petitions, and protests, the process has become complex. The government must find a solution that meets the need for a new airport while also protecting the rights and lands of local people.
The project is expected to be completed by 2034. While it promises better air connectivity and future development for Bengaluru, the success of this airport project will depend on how well the government manages both political pressures and the concerns of the public.
