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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Monday announced in the State Assembly that his government is abandoning the proposed greenfield airport at Parandur in Kancheepuram district.

The Rs 27,400-crore project, planned as Chennai’s second airport, had faced strong opposition from local farmers and residents for nearly seven years over the acquisition of fertile agricultural land, displacement of families, and the impact on wetlands and water bodies.

Vijay said he was fulfilling a promise made to protesters during his earlier visits and that the government stands firmly with the farmers. He added that alternative sites would be identified that minimise damage to farmland and livelihoods.

The decision marks a major policy shift from the previous DMK government’s plan. The opposition has criticised the move, warning of potential economic setbacks. The state will continue expanding capacity at the existing Chennai airport while searching for a new location.