Bengaluru's second airport site will be merit-based

Bengaluru is planning a second airport, and the location will be chosen based on merit, according to Karnataka's Infrastructure Minister M B Patil. He shared this news with reporters on Monday. The state government has shortlisted three potential sites for the airport and will consult with the Union Civil Aviation Ministry before making a final decision. Two of the possible sites are located near Harohalli on Kanakapura Road, while the third is on Kunigal Road in Nelamangala. The Kunigal Road site is about 38 kilometers from the city center. Patil noted that the Kanakapura sites have better access to important roads and the metro system. The Minister emphasized that choosing a site for the airport must consider connectivity. He stated, “If the place is too far, no one will come.” The government’s role is to provide land, but they expect private investors to find the project feasible and viable. Patil assured that he will not be swayed by outside pressures when selecting the airport location. He stated, "We will take a decision based on the best interests of Bengaluru." Following the ongoing Assembly session, he plans to meet with the Union Civil Aviation Minister to discuss the shortlist and have the Airport Authority of India assess the sites. Once the site is approved, the government will move forward with the airport project, which is expected to take seven to eight years to complete. Patil also mentioned that the exclusivity clause for the Bengaluru International Airport will end in 2033, and preparations must begin soon.