The demand for a Tumakuru International Airport has resurfaced, with industry representatives and former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa urging the government to establish the facility at Vasanth NarasapuraThe proposal to establish an international airport in Tumakuru has once again gained momentum after former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa and the Tumakuru District Chamber of Commerce and Industry renewed their demand. The chamber has urged the Karnataka government to develop the airport on around 2,000 acres of government land in the Vasanth Narasapura industrial area, stating that the project would strengthen industrial growth, logistics, exports and employment opportunities. The proposal is yet to receive approval from the state or Central government.
Tumakuru: The long-pending demand for an international airport in Tumakuru has resurfaced, with renewed support from industrial stakeholders and political leaders who argue that the district is well positioned to host Karnataka's second international airport.
The latest push comes after former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa reportedly wrote to the state government seeking the establishment of an international airport in Tumakuru. The issue was also raised during the Bidadi Township programme, bringing the proposal back into public discussion.
Tumakuru International Airport Proposed at Vasanth Narasapura
Following Yediyurappa's appeal, the Tumakuru District Chamber of Commerce and Industry has submitted a representation to the Karnataka government seeking the development of the proposed airport at Vasanth Narasapura.
According to the chamber, nearly 2,000 acres of government land are available in the Vasanth Narasapura industrial area, making it a suitable location for the proposed airport.
"The available government land at Vasanth Narasapura provides an opportunity to develop Karnataka's second international airport," the chamber said in its representation.
Industry Body Highlights Strategic Advantages
The Chamber of Commerce stated that Tumakuru has significant geographical and industrial advantages that support the proposal.
According to Panduranga, President of the Chamber of Commerce, Tumakuru is the only district in Karnataka that forms part of the Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor and the National Investment and Manufacturing Zone (NIMZ).
The district is also connected by National Highway 48 and National Highway 206, providing road connectivity to multiple regions. Industry representatives said Tumakuru serves as a gateway to nearly 17 districts, making it strategically important for industrial expansion and freight movement.
Airport Expected to Boost Industry, Logistics and Employment
The chamber stated that establishing an international airport would support the growth of manufacturing industries, exports, cargo movement and logistics infrastructure in the region.
Industry representatives believe improved air connectivity would also encourage fresh investments, generate employment opportunities and strengthen industrial development across Tumakuru and North Karnataka.
"An international airport is essential to expand industry, exports, logistics and employment opportunities in the region," the Chamber of Commerce said.
Government Yet to Respond to Proposal
The proposal for an international airport in Tumakuru has been discussed on several occasions in the past, but no final decision has been announced by either the Karnataka government or the Centre.
With the demand receiving renewed support from industry bodies and political leaders, stakeholders are awaiting the response of the state and Central governments on the future of the project.
