Uttar Pradesh's International Film City Project Moves Forward As Master Plan Submitted to YEIDA
Noida: The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has taken receipt of the comprehensive master plan for Uttar Pradesh's International Film City project, marking a significant step forward for the entertainment hub that promises to transform the region's media landscape.
Film producer Boney Kapoor's Bayview Projects LLP formally submitted the detailed layout plans this week, setting in motion the approval process for what will become North India's largest film production complex.
Spanning 1,000 acres in Sector-21 along the Yamuna Expressway, the project will be developed in three distinct phases over eight years. The initial phase, covering 230 acres with an estimated investment of ₹1,510 crore, will establish core production infrastructure including multiple sound stages, post-production facilities, and a film institute. Subsequent phases will expand the complex to utilize the full 1,000 acre, creating what officials describe as a first of its kind integrated creative ecosystem in northern India.
"This submission represents the culmination of nearly two years of planning and design work," said Rajiv Arora, General Manager of Bayview Projects. The plans reveal specialized facilities that set the project apart, including underwater shooting tanks, architectural replicas representing India's diverse heritage for location filming, and one of the country's largest convention centers with 10,000 seats for major events and award ceremonies.
YEIDA officials confirmed the master plan approval process is now underway, with construction expected to commence within 90 days of final clearance. "We're reviewing every aspect to ensure full compliance with our agreement," stated YEIDA CEO Arun Veer Singh, referencing the unique 18% gross revenue share model that secured Bayview's selection as project developer.
Beyond production facilities, the Film City will feature commercial components including retail spaces, offices, and hospitality offerings, though these will only commence after core film infrastructure is operational. A dedicated cinema museum and film festival district aim to establish the complex as a cultural destination beyond its production capabilities.
Industry analysts note the project could create a new media corridor, with its strategic location along the Yamuna Expressway providing connectivity to Delhi while offering significantly more affordable production space than Mumbai facilities. The UP government estimates the development will generate approximately 500,000 direct and indirect jobs when fully operational.
As the approval process continues, attention now turns to how quickly ground can be broken on what promises to be one of India's most significant investments in entertainment infrastructure.
With Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expected to lay the foundation stone later this year, the International Film City moves closer to becoming a reality that could reshape India's media production landscape.
news