Overview The Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (KSIIDC) has initiated the process of establishing a second international airport for Bangalore by inviting tenders for an expert consultancy firm. This firm will be responsible for preparing a comprehensive location suitability, technical, and financial feasibility report. The initiative aims to address the growing passenger traffic and enhance the region's connectivity. Key Developments Tender Invitation: KSIIDC has invited tenders to select a consultancy firm. Deadline: The last date for submitting applications is January 12, 2026 . Identified Locations: The State government has identified sites at Choodahalli and Somanahalli on Kanakapura Road, and a location near Nelamangala . Preliminary Report: A high-level team from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has already inspected these locations and submitted a preliminary report. Feasibility Report: The selected consultancy firm must submit a detailed technical and financial feasibility report within five months . Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the tender, firms must meet specific criteria: Project Experience: Firms must have executed projects worth at least ₹250 crore annually over the past five years. Consultancy Experience: They must have handled or prepared consultancy reports for a minimum of five projects in the relevant sector. Scope of the Feasibility Report The selected consultancy firm will conduct a thorough study, considering various parameters: Environmental Factors: Rainfall patterns, topography, and noise pollution. Infrastructure Availability: Availability of power, water supply, sewerage, and waste management infrastructure. Socio-Economic Factors: Surrounding population, regional development, and impact on industries, tourism, and public mobility. Connectivity: Existing connectivity to the proposed sites and required infrastructure development. Cost Estimation: Estimated cost of developing the proposed airport and land requirements. Regulatory Approvals: Approvals to be obtained from various authorities, including the Ministry of Defence and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) . Operational Viability: Cargo handling and passenger services, along with their economic viability. Strategic Importance Passenger Density: Kempegowda International Airport currently ranks second in the country in terms of passenger density. Future Demand: By 2033 , the State will require another airport to meet the growing demand. Benchmarking: New Delhi and Mumbai already have two airports each, highlighting the need for additional airport infrastructure in major metropolitan areas. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS3: Infrastructure , specifically airport infrastructure development. It also touches upon GS2: Government Policies related to infrastructure planning and development. The project highlights the government's proactive approach to addressing future infrastructure needs and promoting economic growth. Important Facts The project aims to develop a second international airport for Bangalore. KSIIDC is overseeing the project. The deadline for tender submissions is January 12, 2026 . Identified locations include Choodahalli , Somanahalli , and Nelamangala . The consultancy firm must have significant project experience ( ₹250 crore annually). The feasibility report is due within five months . AAI has already submitted a preliminary report.