Tamil Nadu Slows Land Push for Hosur Airport but Keeps Project Alive
The DMK government in Tamil Nadu has strategically decided to decelerate the pace of land procurement for the proposed greenfield airport in Hosur, even as it actively pursues essential clearances from the central government and advances administrative paperwork behind the scenes. Officials describe this move as a tactical recalibration rather than a retreat, aimed at navigating political sensitivities with Assembly elections on the horizon and scattered protests emerging in villages earmarked for acquisition.
Project Scope and Land Requirements
Approximately 3,000 acres are required for the ambitious airport project, which includes 800 acres of government land. The remaining 2,134 acres consist of private holdings, predominantly agricultural, spread across 12 villages in Hosur and Shoolagiri taluks. This airport is designed to handle up to 30 million passengers annually, positioning it as a future logistics and industrial gateway for the state.
Strategic Delay Amid Electoral Pressures
A senior official involved in the process confirmed that while work continues on issuing the government order, the pace has been intentionally slowed until after the elections due to public protests. "This delay won't have any impact on the project," the official stated, emphasizing that it is a temporary measure. The Krishnagiri district administration is currently revising its Land Development Plan based on suggestions from the Commissioner of Land Administration, with formal acquisition set to begin only after the government order is issued.
Continued Administrative Efforts
Despite the slowdown in land acquisition, the state government remains proactive in other areas. Earlier this month, Tamil Nadu applied for site clearance from the Union Civil Aviation Ministry, marking the first of several necessary approvals. Additionally, bids have been floated to appoint a consultant for a Detailed Techno-Economic Report, indicating that administrative machinery is still active, even if physical groundwork has been postponed.
Challenges Beyond Land Acquisition
The project faces significant hurdles beyond land procurement, particularly concerning airspace allocation. In January, the Defence Ministry indicated potential difficulties due to operations of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited around Bengaluru, as much of Krishnagiri's airspace overlaps with defence and test-flight corridors. However, officials believe there is ample time to negotiate, given the project's early stage.
Another obstacle is securing a No Objection Certificate from Bengaluru International Airport Limited, whose concession agreement restricts new airports within 150 km until 2033. Tamil Nadu hopes to either negotiate an exemption or time operations accordingly to comply with these restrictions.
Economic Significance of Hosur Airport
Hosur has transformed from a sleepy border town into one of Tamil Nadu's most concentrated manufacturing belts over the past three decades. It is home to:
- Automotive, electronics, aerospace, and electric vehicle plants
- Thousands of small and medium enterprises
- More than 500 large industries and nearly 3,000 MSMEs
These industries currently rely on Bengaluru's Kempegowda airport for passenger and cargo movement. The proposed Hosur airport, located near the Bengaluru Satellite Town Ring Road, promises shorter turnaround times, dedicated freight handling, and the potential to establish Hosur as an independent logistics hub. Senior officials view the airport not merely as an amenity but as an economic instrument to anchor investment and prevent industries from drifting across the border into Karnataka.
Political and Social Context
The decision to slow land acquisition reflects a familiar election-season calculus, where infrastructure projects promise growth but land acquisition risks political friction. Even minor protests can become symbolic in a tightly contested electoral cycle, prompting the government to adopt a cautious approach. However, the state has not pressed pause entirely, maintaining momentum through bureaucratic channels to ensure the project's long-term viability.
