The Punjab government has relaxed operating-hour restrictions for cinemas, allowing them to remain open until 11 p.m. under its revised business timing framework.

The move comes after actor and producer Fahad Mustafa urged the provincial government to reconsider the earlier restrictions, which he said were affecting the cinema business and limiting evening shows for audiences.

Under the previous arrangement, introduced as part of provincial austerity measures, many cinemas were effectively forced to close by 8 p.m. The issue was particularly serious for cinemas located inside shopping malls and commercial centers, as these venues were required to shut down early.

Mustafa raised the matter in an open letter to Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, requesting a modest relaxation in cinema timings. He argued that evening shows are important for working people and families who are unable to visit cinemas during the day.

He also said the limited operating window was hurting newly released films, especially during their opening weeks, when ticket sales and show availability are critical for commercial performance.

Following the announcement, Mustafa shared the official notification on Instagram and thanked Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for the decision.

According to the revised framework, shops, markets, shopping malls and bazaars will now close at 9 p.m., while marriage halls, marquees and ceremonial venues will operate until 10 p.m.

Restaurants, cafes, cinemas, eateries and standalone fruit and vegetable shops have been allowed to remain open until 11 p.m.

Several sectors have been exempted from the restrictions altogether, including bakeries, tandoors, milk shops, fuel stations, CNG stations, electric vehicle charging facilities, gyms, sports centers, padel courts, IT companies and call centers.

Hospitals, clinics, laboratories, pharmacies and medical supply stores have also been exempted due to their essential nature.

For cinema owners and filmmakers, the decision is expected to provide relief by allowing more evening screenings and improving access for audiences. Industry figures believe the additional hours could support ticket sales, cinema operations and jobs linked to the entertainment and hospitality sectors.

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