Bengaluru Second Airport Location On Kunigal Road? Tumkuru’s Industrial Hub In The Spotlight

The Karnataka government is nearing a decision on the location for Bengaluru's second international airport, with Kunigal, located along National Highway 75, emerging as the leading contender for the new airport. The area between Dabaspet and Kunigal has been identified as a potential site following a comprehensive evaluation.

While speaking to reporters near his home in Sadashivanagar, Home Minister G. Parameshwara said, "The Tumkuru area, including Kunigal, is under consideration. The plan is to locate the new airport near Dabaspet, close to Tumkuru, though nothing is confirmed yet. Tumkuru is developing into Asia's biggest industrial hub, spreading across 20,000 acres in phases. Over 150 industries have already been established, and a Japanese township is also in the works. Most notably, HAL's helicopter factory and production have begun near Mettur. If this location is chosen, considering all these developments, it would be highly beneficial.

He further said,''After thorough evaluation, the area between Dabaspet and Kunigal along National Highway 75 has been identified as the most suitable site for the new airport. However, the final decision will depend on technical feasibility."

Looking to the future, Tumakuru is set to see several new development projects. The city is evolving alongside Bengaluru, with discussions underway to classify it as 'Greater Bengaluru.' Bengaluru has already extended to Nelamangala and Dabaspet, and there are plans to extend the metro rail to Tumakuru, Parameshwara noted, adding that a formal proposal will be submitted to the government.

It must be noted that Bengaluru, India's third-largest city, is rapidly growing and requires additional infrastructure to support its expanding population and economic activities. As Delhi and Mumbai prepare to open new airports within the next 12 months, Bengaluru is following suit with plans for a second airport to complement Kempegowda International Airport (IATA code: BLR).

One significant challenge is the proximity clause that mandates any new airport be at least 150 km away from the existing one. This rule remains in effect until 2032, which limits potential sites. Bengaluru has already has an existing airport-HAL, the former primary airport-which no longer offers significant commercial services and is unlikely to be considered for future expansions.

Despite these challenges, Bengaluru's growing demand for air travel necessitates a second international airport. While Kunigal seems like a promising location, the technical feasibility study will ultimately determine whether it moves forward. In the meantime, neighboring states have also expressed interest in building airports near Bengaluru, potentially adding competition for high-value traffic.