Pakistani actor and producer Fahad Mustafa has welcomed the Punjab government’s decision to ease operating hour restrictions on cinemas, saying the move will help audiences enjoy films in theatres and support the local entertainment industry.
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The development comes after the Government of Punjab revised its austerity-related business timing regulations, allowing cinemas to remain open until 11pm. Previously, cinemas were required to close at 8pm under energy conservation measures, a restriction that industry stakeholders said was negatively affecting movie attendance.
Reacting to the decision, Mustafa shared the official notification on social media and thanked Maryam Nawaz Sharif for extending cinema operating hours. He encouraged residents of Punjab to visit theatres and watch his latest film, Zombeid.
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The actor had recently appealed to Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb to reconsider the restrictions. In an open letter, he argued that the early closure policy was hurting newly released films, which depend heavily on evening screenings to attract audiences and generate box office revenue.
Under the revised policy, businesses in Punjab have been divided into different categories with separate operating schedules. Markets, shopping malls and bazaars will close at 9pm, while marriage halls and event venues will shut at 10pm.
Restaurants, cafes, cinemas and various food outlets will now be allowed to operate until 11pm. Several essential and service-oriented businesses, including bakeries, fuel stations, gyms, IT companies, call centres and electric vehicle charging stations, have been exempted from the timing restrictions altogether.
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The decision has been welcomed by members of the film industry, who believe extended operating hours will help increase cinema attendance and provide greater support for local productions. Industry observers say the move could boost box office revenues and encourage audiences to return to theatres for evening screenings.