Actor says austerity-related restrictions are impacting recently released films and reducing audience turnout.
Pakistani actor and producer Fahad Mustafa has appealed to the Punjab government to reconsider the current closing timings of malls and cinemas, saying the restrictions are affecting newly released films and limiting audience access.
In a letter addressed to Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and shared on Instagram, Mustafa requested a review of cinema operating hours, noting that most cinemas are located in shopping malls and are therefore affected by the government's early-closure policy introduced as part of austerity measures.
The actor said the restrictions were impacting recently released films that depend on strong audience turnout.
He argued that a modest extension in cinema operating hours could help boost ticket sales and revenues for cinemas and film distributors, while also supporting jobs linked to the exhibition and hospitality sectors.
Mustafa said longer operating hours would also provide greater convenience for moviegoers who are only able to attend screenings later in the evening.
