Karnataka Minister shares update on Bengaluru’s second airport location; Here’s what he said

Bengaluru: Amid increasing speculation over the location of a second international airport for Bengaluru, Karnataka Minister MB Patil has confirmed that no final decision has been made yet. The government is currently conducting surveys to determine the most suitable site, with further clarity expected within the next week.

Patil addressed the Karnataka Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, providing an update on the progress of the ongoing efforts. He explained that the Infrastructure Development Corporation Karnataka Ltd (IDeCK) is surveying various proposed sites to identify the best location for the new airport. Once the survey is complete, the report will be submitted to the Airport Authority of India (AAI), which will have the final say on the airport’s location.

“There will be some clarity on the location within a week,” Patil said, adding that factors such as connectivity, proximity to key areas, and the surrounding environment will be considered in the decision-making process.

Several reports have pointed to Kunigal, a town along National Highway 75, as a potential site for the new airport. Specifically, the area between Dabaspet and Kunigal is under consideration. Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara also confirmed that Tumkuru, including Kunigal, is being explored as a possible location.

“The plan is to locate the new airport near Dabaspet, close to Tumkuru, though nothing is confirmed yet,” Parameshwara stated. He emphasized the strategic significance of Tumkuru, noting its rapid development as Asia’s largest industrial hub, covering an area of 20,000 acres.

With over 150 industries already established and a Japanese township in the works, Tumkuru’s growing industrial presence, including HAL’s helicopter factory near Mettur, makes it a favorable location for the airport, according to Parameshwara.

In addition to Kunigal and Tumkuru, other locations such as Ramanagara, Bidadi, and Harohalli are also being evaluated as potential sites for Bengaluru’s second airport. The state government is working to ensure that the new airport serves the city’s expanding aviation needs while complementing ongoing industrial growth in the region.