Chennai, August 25: The Tamil Nadu government is exploring alternative industrial uses for the 1,700 acres of land acquired for the proposed Parandur Greenfield Airport project, which has now been abandoned. Additionally, the government is searching for a new location for a second airport in Chennai.
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay announced this decision in the assembly on Monday, citing concerns about the impact of the project on agricultural land, water resources, and the livelihoods of local residents.
He emphasized the necessity of a second airport for Chennai and assured that a site would be selected to minimize disruption to farming and existing communities. The current Chennai Airport will also undergo expansion.
Government sources indicated that there are no plans to return the acquired land or retract compensation given to landowners. Since these parcels were acquired under the Tamil Nadu Land Acquisition Act for industrial purposes, they can be repurposed for projects other than the airport.
The industries department will collaborate with other departments to devise a plan for the land’s utilization. Options being considered include agro-processing units, agricultural-related activities, and low-risk industries. There is also a proposal to establish a SIPCOT Industrial Estate. It is expected that the government will announce a roadmap after discussions are concluded.
Meanwhile, officials are assessing potential sites for the new airport, although no location has been finalized yet. Sources report that the Chief Minister has engaged in discussions regarding this issue.
The Parandur project, announced in August 2022 after surveys began in 2021, was planned to span 5,300 acres across 13 villages. Its aim was to meet Chennai’s long-term aviation needs, with a target completion date set for 2028.
However, the proposal faced continuous opposition from villagers concerned about the destruction of farmland, water sources, and established communities. Residents of Eganapuram protested for over 1,100 nights, passing 16 resolutions against the airport and boycotting seven gram sabha meetings. Families even kept their children out of government schools as part of the protest.
Despite the opposition, the previous government continued the land acquisition process and developed rehabilitation plans, including model homes for displaced families.
Vijay visited Eganapuram in January 2025 and promised to cancel the project if elected. After his government took office, progress slowed. The announcement made on Monday formally ends the Parandur plan, while the proposal for a second airport at a different location remains under consideration.
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