Punjab announces Lahore film city project to revive local film industry

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched an ambitious initiative to revive Lahore’s film industry through the establishment of a dedicated “Film City” in Lahore.

According to provincial authorities, Rs2 billion has been allocated for the project, which aims to restore the historical prominence of film making in the region and promote the local creative industry.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, the chief minister said the 50-acre facility is designed to bring back the “glory of filmmaking” in Lahore and across Punjab.

She added that the project was developed over the past two years after extensive consultations with filmmakers, producers, and actors from the entertainment industry.

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The planned Film City will include world-class studios, sound stages, advanced visual effects (VFX) facilities, and post-production laboratories. It will also feature a purpose-built convention hall for events and an integrated trade hub to support business activities.

Additionally, a film and music school will be established to train emerging artists, musicians, and technicians. The complex will also include backlots, outdoor shooting areas, a central lake for film sets, and dedicated emergency response systems.

Officials said the project aims to reduce reliance on foreign production services, strengthen local talent, and create thousands of employment opportunities. It is also expected to position Pakistan as a competitive destination for global creative production.

Provincial Information and Culture Minister Azma Bokhari also announced supporting measures for the revival of the film sector.

She said 32 filmmakers have been selected to receive Rs30 million each, with funding released in two phases—half at script submission and the remainder upon completion of their films within a one-year period.

A second round of applications is expected to open in June, along with special funding for five exceptionally talented young filmmakers.

The government is also working on converting cinemas to solar energy to reduce operational costs and support cinema owners.

Officials said these initiatives are aimed at revitalizing Punjab’s film industry and enabling it to compete on an international level.