Chennai, August 25: DMK leader and former Chief Minister MK Stalin has strongly criticized the decision by the TVK government to cancel the proposed Parandur International Airport project. He stated that this decision could significantly hinder Tamil Nadu’s development and weaken the state’s position as a preferred destination for investors.
In response to Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s announcement in the Assembly regarding the project’s cancellation, Stalin accused the decision of being driven by narrow political thinking, neglecting the long-term interests of Tamil Nadu. He expressed on social media that this is not merely a policy shift but a major disappointment for the state.
Stalin also raised objections to the announcement made under Assembly Rule 110, arguing that this rule does not allow for immediate discussion. He insisted that legislators should have been given the opportunity to discuss such an important issue before a decision was made.
The former Chief Minister emphasized that Tamil Nadu, which has become a leader in electronics exports, automobile manufacturing, and other industrial sectors, requires a world-class international airport. According to him, modern and expanded aviation infrastructure in Chennai is essential for promoting industry, investment, exports, and employment.
Stalin claimed that Parandur was selected after a thorough examination of all potential alternative sites. He noted that many regulatory approvals related to the project had already been obtained, and the land acquisition process was progressing.
He mentioned that the previous DMK government had prepared to initiate construction of the project upon returning to power.
Stalin warned that if a new site is sought now, it would require obtaining new approvals and restarting the land acquisition process. This could lead to years of delays in the project, negatively impacting the state’s development in the interim.
The DMK leader pointed out that during the ‘Dravidian Model’ governance, Tamil Nadu emerged as the top choice for investors. He alleged that the decision to cancel the Parandur project could serve as a “jackpot” for other states looking to attract industries and investments.
Stalin asserted that achieving the goal of making Tamil Nadu a trillion-dollar economy and eventually reaching 1.5 trillion dollars cannot be accomplished without continuous industrial development.
He accused the TVK government of making this decision without adequate consultation and foresight, warning that it could affect job opportunities and the future aspirations of the state’s youth.
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