Calls for swift expansion of the runway at Tiruchi International Airport are intensifying as local officials and industry stakeholders urge Central Government to expedite the project. With land acquisition nearing completion, the urgency for the runway to extend from 8,000 feet to 12,500 feet has become a focal point for the region's economic development.
As of now,over 90% of the necessary land has been acquired, with 487 acres already handed over to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) by the State Government. Durai Vaiko, the Member of Parliament for Tiruchi, recently met with Union Minister for Civil Aviation Rammohan Naidu Kinjarupu to advocate for project,which carries estimated cost of ₹350 crore. Vaiko emphasized pressing need for the runway expansion,citing the detrimental effects of delays on tourism and business growth.
“It has been close to a decade that the airport runway expansion is being discussed,” said S.A. Mubashir,Vice-President of the Trichy Tourism Federation. He compared situation to the Thoothukudi Airport,which has already completed its land acquisition, and noted that the newly opened Visakhapatnam Airport boasts a runway exceeding 12,000 feet. The current limitations at Tiruchi are hampering operations of larger aircraft and restricting international connectivity.
In his representation to the Minister,Vaiko pointed out that the runway extension project is now “well positioned for immediate implementation.” He highlighted that Tiruchi Airport has been experiencing double-digit growth in passenger traffic,which underscores the urgency of the expansion. MP described the runway extension as a transformative project for central Tamil Nadu, capable of establishing Tiruchi as a significant international aviation hub.
“This will enhance regional and international connectivity,promote trade, tourism, and industrial growth,and contribute significantly to economic development of the region,” Vaiko stated. He also addressed minor logistical issues related to the project, including construction of a diversion road for the Uyyakondan Canal Road and the relocation of power lines by Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd .
However, Vaiko raised concerns about the feasibility of diverting the Uyyakondan Canal, which runs behind the current airport runway. Altering the canal's alignment could adversely affect local agriculture. He noted that the State Government had stipulated that the runway must cross the canal without disrupting its natural flow, and that the AAI is responsible for constructing a culvert over the canal.
In separate appeal,Vaiko requested Minister to exempt two land parcels from the acquisition process due to strong public opposition. first parcel, measuring 4.22 acres along with 1.89 acres of poramboke land at Pattathammal Street,is home to over 200 residential houses. The proposed acquisition has sparked significant resistance from residents,who fear displacement .
The second parcel, which includes 0.32 acres housing Pachanachi Amman Temple,has also faced backlash. Despite the land acquisition order being issued, the presence of temple has raised genuine concerns regarding religious sentiments of the local community. Vaiko emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to maintain public trust and support for the project .
As discussions continue,the pressure mounts on Central Government to act swiftly. The expansion of the Tiruchi runway is not just matter of infrastructure; it represents a crucial step toward enhancing region's connectivity and economic potential .
