Chennai’s Second Airport Project at Parandur

The Parandur airport project in Chennai is nearing final approval after three years of planning. The Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, announced that in-principle approval could come soon. However, opposition continues from villagers, farmers, and environmentalists. Concerns centre around environmental impact and displacement of local residents.

Background of the Project

The idea for a second airport in Chennai dates back to 1998. Initially proposed by then Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, the plan sought to expedite the construction of a new international airport. A site near Meenambakkam was identified. In 1999, the Centre approved the international airport project with a budget of ₹2,000 crore. Over the years, several plans emerged, including a massive airport project in Sriperumbudur by 2007. However, these plans did not materialise. In 2022, the Tamil Nadu government selected Parandur as the new site. The project is estimated to cost ₹29,144 crore and will be developed in four phases. It will feature three terminals and two parallel runways, with a capacity to handle 100 million passengers.

Opposition and Environmental Concerns

The announcement of the Parandur airport faced immediate backlash. Villagers and farmers expressed discontent over the site’s environmental implications. The project site includes numerous water bodies, raising concerns about ecological damage. Residents from 13 villages, including Ekanapuram, began protests against the project, which have lasted over 950 days. Environmentalists warn that the project could exacerbate flooding in Chennai, a city already prone to inundation. The Kamban canal, which connects various water bodies in the area, could be disrupted, leading to severe flooding during monsoon seasons.

Government Response and Current Status

In response to the protests, the Tamil Nadu government formed a committee to assess the situation. A hydrogeological report was prepared, outlining strategies to mitigate flooding risks. However, the report remains confidential, heightening public concern. Currently, land acquisition and environmental surveys are in progress. A hurdle remains – obtaining environmental clearance due to the wetlands present at the site. If the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Limited secures this approval soon, construction could commence after land acquisition. The government aims to complete the first phase by the end of 2028.

Future Implications

The Parandur airport project holds potential for economic growth in Chennai. However, the environmental ramifications and social implications for displaced communities must be carefully considered. Balancing development with ecological integrity remains a critical challenge.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the environmental implications of large infrastructure projects like airports in urban areas.
2. Estimate the socio-economic impact of displacing communities for developmental projects such as the Parandur airport.
3. Point out the key factors contributing to the opposition against the Parandur airport project.
4. What is the role of environmental assessments in large-scale infrastructure projects? Discuss its significance.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the environmental implications of large infrastructure projects like airports in urban areas.

1. Large infrastructure projects often disrupt local ecosystems, affecting biodiversity.
2. Airports can lead to increased pollution, including noise and air quality degradation.
3. Construction and operation can alter water drainage patterns, exacerbating flooding risks.
4. Wetlands and natural habitats might be destroyed, leading to loss of essential environmental functions.
5. Long-term climate impacts can arise from increased carbon emissions associated with air travel.

2. Estimate the socio-economic impact of displacing communities for developmental projects such as the Parandur airport.

1. Displacement can lead to loss of livelihoods for farmers and local businesses.
2. Communities may face social disintegration and loss of cultural identity.
3. Compensation and rehabilitation measures are often inadequate, leading to economic hardships.
4. New job opportunities may arise, but they might not match the quality or quantity of lost jobs.
5. Long-term psychological impacts on displaced individuals can affect community well-being.

3. Point out the key factors contributing to the opposition against the Parandur airport project.

1. Environmental concerns regarding the destruction of wetlands and biodiversity.
2. Fear of increased flooding in an already vulnerable city due to disrupted water bodies.
3. Displacement of residents from 13 villages, leading to protests and social unrest.
4. Lack of transparency regarding the government’s hydrogeological report and environmental assessments.
5. Historical failures of similar projects, leading to distrust among the local population.

4. What is the role of environmental assessments in large-scale infrastructure projects? Discuss its significance.

1. Environmental assessments evaluate potential impacts on ecosystems and communities before project approval.
2. They help identify mitigation strategies to minimize negative effects on the environment.
3. Public participation is often incorporated, allowing community concerns to be voiced.
4. Compliance with environmental regulations is ensured, promoting sustainable development.
5. Assessments can influence project design, leading to more environmentally friendly alternatives.