Mumbai: A staff of the Inox Cinemas demonstrates their standard operating procedure (SOP) as they prepare to re-open cinema halls as a part of unlock 5.0, in Mumbai, Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2020.
After nearly seven months, cinemas in India reopened today in the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic. Theatres and multiplexes opened in some regions of the country as the Ministry of Home Affairs left it on the states to take a final call. The reopening comes in line with the Union government's permission to multiplexes, cinema halls and theatres to reopen from today within the framework of a set of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
PVR Cinemas, India’s largest film exhibitor with 845 screens in 176 properties across 71 cities, on Wednesday said 10 states and four union territories have given their go-ahead for the reopening of cinemas. The multiplex chain said it hopes to build customer confidence with an ‘Evangelism’ phase which will give people a chance to experience its enhanced safety features first-hand. This phase will involve goodwill screenings for the company’s employees, health workers and the police force and their children. The movie screenings will begin from Friday, October 16, and tickets will go live on their website as well as other ticketing platforms from midnight.
Even along with the easing of restrictions, comes a rule book, which holds the key to a safe watching experience as you enjoy with your family and friends.
- Most importantly, movie watchers will have to wear their masks at all times inside the hall.
- The occupancy of the auditorium shall not be more than 50%. This would mean that alternate seats will be left vacant for social distancing. The seats "not to be occupied" will be marked as such.
- Thermal screening of the cinema goers is mandated to be carried out and only asymptomatic individuals will be allowed.
- Staggered show timings will be followed for different screens.
- Only packaged food and beverages will be allowed. No delivery permitted inside the hall. Multiple sale counters will be set up for food and beverage.
- Temperature setting of all air conditioing will be in the range of 24-30 degrees celsius.
Apart from these, digital modes of payments will be encouraged. Purchase of tickets at the box office will be open throughout the day, advance booking will be allowed to avoid crowding. Also, public service announcements on wearing masks, physical distancing and hand hygiene to be made before and after screening and during intermission.
VIDEO
