PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss has made a significant proposal, suggesting that the Tamil Nadu government should utilize the 5,700 acres of land acquired for the scrapped Parandur greenfield airport project to create a massive water reservoir. Speaking at an awareness rally in Chennai, he emphasized that connecting the 33 existing lakes in that area could create a reservoir that would benefit the entire Chennai metropolitan region and surrounding districts.

The Need for a Second Airport

Addressing the limitations of the current infrastructure, Ramadoss argued that Chennai urgently requires a second airport. He pointed out that the Meenambakkam Airport lacks the capacity to handle large international aircraft. "A 60-meter runway is required for very large aircraft to land, but the runway at Meenambakkam is only 45 meters wide," he stated, noting that this is why many large aircraft that land in Bengaluru are unable to operate in Chennai.

Furthermore, he highlighted the logistical nightmare caused by the airport's location on the GST Main Road, which makes the movement of container lorries and cargo aircraft nearly impossible due to traffic congestion.

Environmental and Agricultural Concerns

The PMK leader also raised alarms over the potential destruction of agricultural lands. While welcoming the decision to scrap the airport, he urged the government not to divert the acquired land for industrial expansion, such as the Cheyyar Melma SIPCOT expansion, warning that industrialization could ruin the local ecosystem more severely than the airport would have.

The development of Chennai should not come at the cost of its agricultural heritage and ecological stability.

BozokMedia analysis shows that the tension between industrial growth and environmental preservation is reaching a tipping point in Tamil Nadu. The proposal for a reservoir offers a rare middle ground that addresses both water security and land utilization issues.

Historical Background

The Pallikaranai marshland has long been the lungs of Chennai, acting as a critical natural drainage system. Over the years, rapid urbanization and illegal dumping have threatened its existence, leading to frequent flooding in nearby residential areas like Perumbakkam and Madipakkam.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does Anbumani Ramadoss suggest a second airport for Chennai?
Because the current Meenambakkam airport has a narrow runway (45m) and lacks sufficient cargo facilities for large international aircraft.

2. What is the proposal for the Parandur land?
He suggests creating a massive water reservoir by connecting the 33 lakes located within the 5,700 acres of acquired land.