Tamil Nadu’s long-standing plan to build a greenfield airport at Hosur, envisioned as a critical aviation hub for the state’s industrial belt, has suffered another setback with the Union government rejecting the proposed locations on strategic grounds. The decision has triggered sharp political reactions, even as the State government signals it will continue to press its case.
The Hosur airport project was conceived to ease congestion at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport and to support the fast-growing manufacturing and electronics clusters spread across north-western Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu State government formally submitted proposals for two potential sites near Hosur, highlighting the region’s proximity to Bengaluru and its role as a major industrial corridor.
However, the Ministry of Defence has once again turned down the proposal, citing concerns over airspace constraints and the strategic sensitivity of the region, which lies close to defence and aerospace establishments. According to officials, the proposed locations were found unsuitable for civil aviation operations without impacting military interests, making clearance unviable at this stage.
The rejection has prompted strong reactions from the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam as well as its ally, the Congress. Tamil Nadu Industries Minister T.R.B. Rajaa expressed disappointment, saying the State would reiterate its demand and hoped the Prime Minister’s Office would take a broader view of Hosur’s economic potential. He argued that the airport was essential not just for Tamil Nadu but also for easing pressure on Bengaluru’s aviation infrastructure.
Senior DMK and Congress leaders accused the Union government of repeatedly ignoring the State’s development priorities, pointing out that Hosur’s industrial growth warranted better air connectivity. They stressed that the project had been proposed after detailed studies and consultations, and called for an alternative solution rather than outright rejection.
Despite the latest setback, the Tamil Nadu government has indicated it will continue engaging with the Centre, underlining that the Hosur airport remains a key component of its long-term industrial and infrastructure strategy.
– Samuthiran
