Punjab Plans 50-Acre Film City to Revive Lahore Cinema

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced plans to establish a 50-acre film city in Lahore, presenting the project as a major step toward reviving the province’s historic cinema identity. The announcement was made as the provincial government accelerates cultural and creative-industry initiatives aimed at bringing film production back to Lahore on a modern scale.

The proposed Punjab Film City is expected to provide filmmakers with purpose-built facilities that reduce the need to rely on foreign production services. Officials say the project is designed to make Lahore a stronger production destination by combining studio infrastructure, training spaces, event facilities and business support under one creative complex.

According to the details shared by the chief minister, the facility will include world-class studios, sound stages, post-production resources and advanced visual-effects support. A convention hall, trade hub, backlots and a central lake are also planned so producers can use multiple controlled environments for shooting and industry events.

Maryam Nawaz said the idea had been under discussion for nearly two years and was shaped through consultations with filmmakers, producers and actors. She described the project as part of a wider vision to turn Punjab into a destination for culture, technology, innovation and heritage, while giving young artists and technicians a platform to build professional careers.

Punjab Information and Culture Minister Azma Bokhari also outlined related measures for the film sector, saying Rs2 billion had been allocated for revival efforts. She said 32 individuals had been selected to receive Rs30 million each for film projects, with payments linked to script submission and completion stages.

The government is also planning a second batch of applications in June and has set aside special support for five highly talented young filmmakers. Officials say the financial assistance is intended to encourage new storytelling, restore production activity and help local films compete with regional and international content.

Lahore once held a central place in Pakistan’s film industry, with studios, cinema houses and creative workers contributing to decades of popular filmmaking. Over time, the city’s film ecosystem declined because of weak investment, fewer cinema screens, limited technical upgrades, piracy, changing audience habits and competition from television and digital platforms.

The new project could have wider economic effects if implemented effectively. A working film city may create jobs for actors, directors, editors, set designers, musicians, costume teams, technical crews, hospitality workers and small businesses connected to production services. It may also help promote cultural tourism and strengthen Pakistan’s soft image.

However, the success of the plan will depend on transparent funding, professional management and the ability to attract serious private-sector participation. The next steps will be watched closely by artists and producers, who will expect the government to move beyond announcements and deliver a functional production ecosystem that can support films from script to screen.