The Tamil Nadu government has formally started the land acquisition process for Chennai’s second airport at Parandur, with 19 landowners from five villages — including Parandur, Podavur, Nelvoy, Valathur, and Akkamapuram — agreeing to part with their land. A total of 17.52 acres valued at INR 9.22 crore was registered with the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO), which is executing the project.
The Kancheepuram Collector conducted a consultative meeting with affected villagers to facilitate the process. Compensation is being directly transferred to the landowners’ bank accounts. According to officials, the government will not immediately take possession of the registered land, allowing farmers to complete their harvests.
For those whose homes are affected, the process is expected to take longer. Officials clarified that residential relocation will begin only after alternative housing is constructed and ready. This phased approach aims to reduce disruption for villagers and ensure a smoother transition.
However, the project continues to face resistance. The Parandur Airport Project Protestors Committee alleged that the administration had coerced some landowners into compliance by offering travel and food incentives, casting doubt on the voluntary nature of their agreement.
Despite opposition, the government appears committed to moving forward with the airport development. With land acquisition officially underway and compensation underway, Chennai’s second airport project takes a significant step ahead, though not without community tension and calls for greater transparency.
