What is the story about?
The initiative for a second international airport in Bengaluru is facing notable challenges, as the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has flagged several
issues regarding three potential sites identified by the Karnataka government. A recent pre-feasibility report by the AAI has raised critical concerns, jeopardising the project's feasibility, according to a TOI report.
Proposed Sites Under Scrutiny
- Chudahalli (near Harohalli)
- Somanahalli (near Harohalli)
- Nelamangala (on Kunigal Road)
What Are the Key Challenges?
According to the report, there are significant concerns, blocking the plan for Bengaluru's second airport.
Proximity to Bannerghatta Forest Area
All three proposed sites are close to the Bannerghatta forest, raising safety issues for aircraft operations during take-off and landing.
Rocky and Uneven Terrain
Particularly near Nelamangala, the rocky landscape would require extensive land-leveling, substantially increasing construction costs.
Airspace Overlap with HAL
The proposed sites fall within the airspace of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), necessitating a flexible agreement between civil and defense aviation authorities to ensure safe operations.
M.B. Patil, the Minister for Large and Medium Industries, emphasized that the AAI report serves as a neutral reference, stating, "Each location has its own pros and cons. We will conduct our own detailed technical and financial studies before making a final decision."
Also Read: Bengaluru South or Rural? Aviation Body To Take Call On 2nd International Airport Soon
What Can Be Done To Build Bengaluru's Second Airport?
The Karnataka government intends to commission a comprehensive techno-economic study to further evaluate the feasibility of the proposed airport. This study will involve consultations with infrastructure and aviation experts before proceeding with private developers.
As passenger traffic at Kempegowda International Airport continues to surge beyond its design capacity, the urgency for a second airport is becoming increasingly apparent. However, the AAI's findings suggest that addressing environmental, financial, and airspace management issues will be crucial before the project can advance.
As Bengaluru strives to bolster its aviation infrastructure, the path to establishing a second airport remains complex and requires careful consideration.
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