Thursday, July 11, 2024 The Karnataka government has stressed the urgent need for a second airport in Bengaluru , a rapidly expanding global metropolis. Minister for Infrastructure, MB Patil, confirmed on Wednesday that constructing a second airport for the city is a definite plan. Currently, the Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), which operates Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), has stipulated that no new international airport should be built within a 150 km radius until 2033.
Despite this, beginning the planning and development process now could see the new airport ready by 2033, aligning with these stipulations. Several potential sites are under evaluation, including Kanakapura Road, Mysuru Road, Magadi, Doddaballapura, Dabaspet, and Tumakuru. Areas like Sarjapura and Kanakapura Road are strong contenders if passenger load is the primary consideration.
These locations are well-suited to handle the expected high volume of passengers. If connectivity to the existing KIA is prioritized, Tumakuru and Dabaspet are leading candidates due to their better connectivity options, making them ideal for facilitating smooth travel between the two airports. A high-level committee will ultimately decide on the location of Bengaluru’s second airport.
The selected site must be free from geographical impediments such as hills, rivers, seas, or high-rise buildings. Additionally, robust connectivity through state and national highways, rail, and metro networks is essential .
