Tamil Nadu faces airport competition as neighboring states advance projects

The Tamil Nadu government, led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, is facing criticism regarding its stance on new airport developments and investment promotion. While the state government has maintained a ban on new airports in areas like Parandur and Hosur, neighboring states are moving forward with major aviation projects.

In Andhra Pradesh, a government gazette has confirmed land acquisition for a greenfield airport in Kuppam, Chittoor District. The project is estimated to cost approximately ₹2,500 crore and is expected to handle nearly two crore passengers annually. Additionally, Karnataka has confirmed plans for a second airport in Bengaluru South on Kanakapura Road. These developments are viewed as potential competitors for the industrial catchment areas near the Tamil Nadu border.

Former Finance Minister T. R. B. Rajaa has also criticized the current administration's handling of the Vettri Tamil Nadu Investment Conclave. Rajaa claimed that 75% of the Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) signed during the event were actually negotiated during the previous DMK administration. He further questioned the lack of media access at the conclave and urged the Chief Minister to prioritize foreign investment and maintain the developmental momentum established by the previous government.