Unlock 5.0: Theatres to run films with half capacity, staggered show timings

New Delhi: The Centre on Tuesday issued guidelines for reopening of cinemas and multiplexes from October 15, stressing that staggered show timings and 50% seating will be key in the offence against Covid-19 as these establishments usher in guests after a more than six-month shutdown.

Theatres will also have to keep the temperature in the hall between 24 degrees and 30 degrees Celsius, and ensure adequate ventilation. They are also required to make public announcements about wearing face marks, social distancing and hand hygiene before and after the screening and during intervals. Encouraging digital payments and ensuring minimal contact between staff and viewers are also part of the new guidelines.

The decision to allow cinema halls to reopen from October 15 was taken on September 30. While the Centre’s permission has come as relief to theatre owners across the country, the actual date for resuming operations will be decided by the different state governments.

To help cinema halls operate with 50% occupancy and to maintain adequate physical distance between people, “seats not to be occupied” will have to be marked.