With the next phrase ‘Unlock 3’ approaching from the next month, the Information and Broadcasting Ministry recommended the Union Home Ministry that, cinema halls to be allowed to re-open all over the country from August.
The cinema halls are shut down ever since march due to the outburst of COVID-19 pandemic crises. Since then the movie theatres are facing a huge loss and are waiting for the functioning of the theatres once again. Now with the news of the reopening of cinema halls are spreading many halls are ensuring about the proper precautions to be maintained for public safety.
PVR Cinemas has issued a safety measure information pamphlet to its privilege members via email.
G Dutta, CEO of PVR said “We’re ensuring basics like sanitization and masks. Paper tickets will no longer in the use. Entry, exit & intermissions will be planned in a manner that avoids overcrowding.” The cinema halls are counting on good content and a positive reaction from viewers once the government gives thumps up to re-open the theatres for the public.
The Multiplex Association of India earlier had submitted a list of SOPs to various Ministries including PM’s Office intending to reassure the government about its preparation in security protocols.
Amit Khare, I&B Secretary recommended that the reopening of cinema halls in India will be as early as 1st August or by the latest around 31st August.
Alternative seats in the first row and then the next row to be kept vacant, a two-meter social distancing procedure to be followed mandatory, and an online or E-ticket system to be followed to avoid unnecessary crowds. The Home Ministry, however, still has to regress on the recommendation.
The Hindi film industry recorded a loss of around Rs 1500 crore since the lockdown. While the situation is extremely critical for multiplexes, it is worsening for single-screen theatres as many have already been shut down.
Article Written by Dikhya Mohanty
Image Source: Google
