PRAYAGRAJ, June 7 -- After the state cabinet nod to the release of the first instalment of Rs 100 crore for the development of 'Aerocity,' a proposed township spread over 500 hectares near Prayagraj airport, the government order in this regard is likely to be issued within a week or two, said officials aware of the development. The township will be developed under the Urban Challenge Fund, under which the government will bear 25% of the estimated project cost. The Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA) has pegged the cost of the first phase at Rs 600 crore and had sought Rs 100 crore from the government to initiate the project. The township will begin with 500 hectares and is planned to be expanded to at least 1,000 hectares in phases. Villages identified for land acquisition currently lack essential infrastructure such as bridges, wide roads and basic civic amenities, prompting farmers in the area to show keen interest in the project. Rishi Raj, vice-chairman, PDA, said the cabinet's approval has paved the way for the release of funds. As per him, a number of farmers have already given consent to provide around 100 hectares of land, while others are in active discussions with the authority officials. "Local residents have also been informed that the project is expected to generate employment opportunities for youth in the region. The land acquisition process will begin once the first instalment is released," he added. The proposed township is said to include a technology park and a dedicated literary zone, alongside a range of modern urban amenities such as hospitals, educational institutions, banks, a post office, market, playgrounds, hotels and restaurants. Provision has also been made for multi-storey group housing complexes, as well as separate residential and commercial plots. Connectivity is also expected to improve significantly, as the airport has been included in the proposed metro rail route....