Exploring a Second Airport - Easing Congestion in Bengaluru - The Cilicon Valley of India

Exploring a Second Airport: Easing Congestion in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, often hailed as the Silicon Valley of India, is contemplating the establishment of an additional airport near Tumakuru in Karnataka. The impetus behind this initiative is to alleviate congestion at Kempegowda International Airport, as underscored by Minister MB Patil, who stresses the escalating demand for air travel. The Tumkur-Chitradurga route is under scrutiny as a potential location, despite challenges emanating from the Airports Authority of India's guidelines.

The Karnataka state government is actively exploring the concept of a second airport to fortify the air travel infrastructure in Bengaluru and accommodate the burgeoning number of travelers. Among the potential locations being considered, the Tumkur-Chitradurga route has emerged as a promising option to complement the existing Kempegowda International Airport.


Minister MB Patil has conveyed that the government is in the nascent stages of identifying suitable areas for the new airport. Drawing inspiration from cities like Mumbai and Goa, he underscores the imperative of addressing Bengaluru's growing demand by contemplating the establishment of multiple airports. Minister Patil acknowledges the standard Airports Authority of India (AAI) guidelines, which typically restrict new airports within 150 km of an existing one. If approved, there will be explicit regulations governing flights between the two airports, and a thorough feasibility assessment is crucial to ensure ample space for a fully functional airport with provisions for future expansions.


Ongoing discussions with Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the entity overseeing Kempegowda International Airport, are aimed at addressing the challenges associated with the potential second airport. During discussions about extending a 60-year lease, the idea of a second airport was proposed to BIAL. Reports indicate that BIAL has demonstrated interest in this proposal.



Initially, there was contemplation given to the reopening of the old airport at HAL. However, due to concerns about limited space for expansion, alternative options are being explored. Proposals for the Tumkur-Chitradurga route are currently under scrutiny, although certain locations are deemed unfeasible due to the presence of existing airports. This proactive approach by the Karnataka government reflects a commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Bengaluru's air travel landscape.


Blogger: Umesh Mahabalashetti

The Founder of SSMDBP Business Technologies Bengaluru

    (www.ssmdbp.com)

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