Boney Kapoor Submits Film City Plans to YEIDA, Seeks Building Layout Approval for Development

Filmmaker Boney Kapoor and his team have submitted detailed building layout plans to the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) for the Film City project in Sector 21. This submission represents a key step forward in the development of the International Film City, a flagship initiative aimed at establishing Uttar Pradesh as a major center for film production, media, entertainment, and tourism.

The submission follows YEIDA’s earlier instruction that construction could not commence until the detailed building layouts were approved. Kapoor met with YEIDA officials to seek this approval and to discuss scheduling the groundbreaking ceremony, which is expected before the end of June 2025, in line with the concession agreement timelines.

The layout plans include key elements such as film studios, a film institute, a convention center dedicated to film events, and a museum celebrating Indian cinema. The project also proposes a specialized film festival district featuring guest houses and auditoriums, accommodation for artists, compact studio units, large sound stages, and an underwater shooting studio.

According to YEIDA’s CEO Arun Vir Singh, the authority required that the concessionaire obtain approvals for core film infrastructure components before proceeding with construction. The agreement mandates that construction begin within one year of the concession agreement’s signing date in June 2024. Non-compliance would result in daily penalties until work commences.

Kapoor assured that the project will prioritize the development of essential film infrastructure first, with a focus on studios and the film institute, which must be completed within three years. This assurance was intended to dispel rumors suggesting that commercial developments would start simultaneously with film-related construction.

Ashish Bhutani, CEO of Bhutani Infrastructure Limited, the developer of the Film City, said that the company had submitted detailed layout plans and was awaiting approval to begin construction. He indicated eagerness to organize the foundation-laying event once the state government finalizes the date.

YEIDA’s CEO emphasized that only plans strictly adhering to the concession agreement would be approved. He also noted the importance of securing additional approvals for parking, landscaping, and horticulture, with phased construction to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

The International Film City is a flagship project launched by Uttar Pradesh’s Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. It is intended to transform the region into a major hub for film production and related industries. The project site covers 1,000 acres near the upcoming Noida International Airport along the Yamuna Expressway.

Phase 1 of the project spans 230 acres with an estimated investment of ₹1,510 crore over eight years. Of this, 155 acres are dedicated to the core film industry infrastructure, which includes production studios, sound stages, post-production units, and other related facilities across four campuses. The remaining 75 acres are allocated for a commercial hub featuring retail, office, and entertainment spaces.

The project is expected to generate approximately 500,000 jobs, both directly and indirectly, and significantly contribute to the regional economy.

YEIDA’s phased approach to approvals highlights the priority given to establishing the film industry infrastructure first before commercial expansion, ensuring transparency and adherence to the agreement’s terms throughout development.

The Film City’s proximity to the Noida International Airport is expected to enhance connectivity for both domestic and international visitors, supporting its goal to become a leading entertainment and tourism destination.