Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay scraps Parandur airport project

The decision by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay to scrap the proposed Parandur Greenfield airport project has triggered intense political debate within the State Legislative Assembly. The move fulfills a campaign promise to local villagers and protest committees who opposed the project due to concerns over agricultural land and water bodies.

Opposition members from the DMK have criticized the decision, arguing that abandoning the site could hinder the state’s long-term industrial growth and aviation requirements. During assembly discussions, the debate escalated into personal political exchanges, with government ministers suggesting that opposition to the cancellation was motivated by the financial interests of specific individuals linked to real estate investments.

In response to questions regarding the 1,700 acres of land already acquired for the project, State Industries Minister S Keerthana stated that the government intends to repurpose the land for other development initiatives. While the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) maintains the site is unsuitable, the DMK continues to raise concerns regarding the economic implications of the cancellation.