Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has indicated that Harohalli, located in his own constituency, could be a potential site for Bengaluru's second airport. Speaking on the matter, he clarified that no specific site has been officially named yet, but emphasized that the location would be in the southern part of the city.
Harohalli emerges as a contender for Bengaluru's second airport
The proposal comes as Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) nears capacity, handling over 40 million passengers annually. The state government has been exploring options for a second airport to ease congestion and support the city's growing aviation needs. Shivakumar's suggestion places Harohalli, a suburb about 40 km south of Bengaluru, as a frontrunner due to its proximity to major industrial corridors and existing road infrastructure.
According to sources within the Karnataka government, a feasibility study is underway to assess potential sites, including Harohalli, Bidadi, and areas near Mysuru Road. The study will evaluate factors such as land availability, connectivity, and environmental impact. Shivakumar stated, "We are looking at multiple options, but Harohalli is one of the strong contenders because of its strategic location and available land."
Political and economic implications
Harohalli falls within the Ramanagara district, which is part of Shivakumar's political constituency. Critics have raised concerns about potential favoritism, but the CM dismissed such claims, asserting that the decision would be based solely on technical and economic merits. "This is not about politics; it's about what is best for Bengaluru's future," he said.
The second airport project is estimated to require an investment of over ₹20,000 crore and could handle up to 30 million passengers annually in its first phase. The state government is also in talks with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and private players to develop the project under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. A senior official from the Karnataka Infrastructure Development Department noted, "The site selection will be completed within six months, and construction could begin by 2028."
Residents and business groups react
Local residents in Harohalli have expressed mixed reactions. While some see the airport as a boost for economic development and job creation, others worry about displacement and environmental degradation. Business groups, including the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), have welcomed the proposal, citing improved connectivity for the industrial belt along NICE Road. FKCCI President R. Ravi Kumar said, "A second airport in the south will decongest traffic and spur growth in the region."
Meanwhile, environmentalists have urged the government to conduct a thorough environmental impact assessment before finalizing the site. The area around Harohalli is known for its granite quarries and water bodies, which could be affected by large-scale construction. Activist Meera Devi commented, "We need an airport, but not at the cost of our environment. The government must ensure sustainable development."
Next steps in the selection process
The Karnataka government has formed a high-level committee to evaluate all potential sites and submit a report within three months. The committee includes experts from the civil aviation department, urban development, and environmental agencies. Shivakumar reiterated that the final decision would be made after consulting all stakeholders, including local communities and industry bodies.
Bengaluru's current airport, KIA, handled 40.3 million passengers in 2025-26, operating at nearly 90% capacity. The second airport is expected to alleviate this pressure and cater to the city's projected growth as a global tech hub. With the state government pushing for early completion, the project is seen as critical for maintaining Bengaluru's economic momentum.
