The state government approved the remaining Rs 9.4337 billion (bn) for development of the Harnandipuram Township proposed by the Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA). Officials said the state had decided to invest about Rs 13 billion (bn) for the project, with the Ghaziabad Development Authority to share equal funds. A first instalment of Rs 4 billion (bn) had been received earlier this year and the remaining amount was approved on 31 July. The authority indicated it would meet its share in due course. Plans envisage acquisition of land amounting to Rs 26 billion (bn) for purchase activities, with the township to be located near Raj Nagar Extension. The project area covers 501 hectares across eight villages including Mathurapur, Shamsher, Champat Nagar, Bhaneda Khurd, Nagla Firoz Mohanpur, Bhovapur, Shahpur Nij Morta and Morta. Land will be acquired through direct purchase from landowners and farmers and officials said the authority was pursuing phased transactions to minimise disruption. The authority will bear additional development and construction costs in stages. The first phase of development is scheduled to launch by September or October on 49 hectares after preparation of a detailed project report. To ensure connectivity, plans include construction of a four-lane outer ring road of six kilometres at a cost of about Rs 900 million (mn). The ring road will link to the 10.3 km Hindon elevated road and provide direct commuter access to the township. Infrastructure planning will prioritise transport links and staged utilities provision. Proposals allied to the township include an international cricket stadium and an aerocity themed township adjacent to the Harnandipuram site, reflecting an integrated urban vision. Officials said project timelines remain subject to due process for land purchase and statutory clearances but emphasised phased delivery to bring early residential and civic facilities. The authority will finalise the detailed project report and commence initial works as approvals and financing milestones are met. Stakeholders will monitor progress as the township advances.