Film City Layout Approved by YEIDA for Development in Greater Noida
The long-awaited Film City project in Greater Noida has taken a significant step forward, as the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) approved the layout plan for the proposed Film City in Sector 21. This approval allows Bayview Bhutani Film City Private Limited, led by filmmaker Boney Kapoor, to proceed with the construction of the project.
The layout plan was submitted by Bayview Bhutani on December 24, 2024, for YEIDA’s approval, marking an essential milestone for the project. Without this approval, construction could not begin on the site. Following a detailed review of the plan by YEIDA’s planning department and a high-level committee, the authority has now given the green light for work to commence.
As part of the approval process, YEIDA has outlined several terms and conditions for the project. These include obtaining additional approvals for detailed parking plans, landscaping, and horticulture work. The construction will be carried out in phases, ensuring that the development progresses in a manageable and structured way. The authority has emphasized the importance of adhering to these terms, ensuring that the project is developed responsibly and with attention to necessary environmental considerations.
A key aspect of the Film City project is its commitment to sustainability. The developer, Bayview Bhutani, is required to obtain a GRIHA 4-Star or IGBC Gold certification, which are crucial for promoting green buildings. This certification will ensure that the project minimizes its ecological impact and reduces carbon emissions during construction. In addition to this, the Film City will house a film institute that will focus on providing technical training in various aspects of filmmaking, including acting, music, and cinematography. The aim is to equip future filmmakers with the skills necessary to thrive in the industry.
YEIDA’s Chief Executive Officer, Arun Vir Singh, highlighted the importance of this approval in facilitating the start of the construction process. “We have approved the layout plan, paving the way for the construction work to begin at the site,” he said. Singh also mentioned that the concessionaire would determine the exact date for construction to begin, but they are expected to proceed in accordance with the terms set out by the authority.
The Film City is set to be constructed on a 1,000-acre plot of land, with the first phase of development covering 230 acres. The estimated cost of the entire project is ₹1,510 crore, and it is expected to take eight years to complete. The project is seen as a major investment in the entertainment infrastructure of Uttar Pradesh and is expected to create numerous opportunities for filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals.
Ashish Bhutani, CEO of Bhutani Group, stated that the foundation stone for the Film City project will likely be laid in February 2025. The date for the ceremony is still being finalized, with the government and project team looking for a suitable date for the event. There is speculation that Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath might attend the ceremony, as the Film City project is seen as a significant part of the state's development plan.
Infrastructure is a crucial component of the Film City, and YEIDA officials have outlined several key features of the development. The site will include designated areas for essential services such as an electrical substation, a sewage treatment plant (STP), water tanks, and an energy center. A 12-meter wide setback line will also be implemented to maintain appropriate spacing between buildings, in line with urban planning norms. These features are integral to ensuring that the Film City operates efficiently and sustainably.
One of the standout features of the Film City is its emphasis on modern, purpose-built facilities for the entertainment industry. In addition to the film institute, the project will offer state-of-the-art shooting spaces that are air-conditioned to accommodate production activities even in extreme weather conditions. The studio floors will range from 40,000 to 60,000 square feet, providing ample space for large-scale sets and diverse backdrops. This design aims to reduce production costs by offering a variety of essential services and equipment under one roof, which will be beneficial to filmmakers seeking convenience and cost-efficiency.
The Film City project is set to be a major addition to Uttar Pradesh's entertainment infrastructure, drawing filmmakers from all over the country and boosting the local economy. With YEIDA’s approval of the layout plan, the project is one step closer to becoming a reality, and construction is expected to start soon.
Image source: bontravelindia.com
