On Tuesday, Maharashtra government issued guidelines and SoPs in order to reopen auditorium and cinema halls from October 22.
Guidelines:
- Occupancy of cinema halls, theatres, auditoriums and multiplexes should not be more than 50% of the total seating capacity.
- Aarogya Setu App that shows “safe status” will be mandatory for all visitors coming in the cinema halls or theatres. If not, visitors can show their final Covid vaccination certificate as an alternative.
- All staff in the theatre/cinema halls/ multiplexes and auditoriums must be fully vaccinated and 14 days must have elapsed after receiving a second dose.
- There shall be staggered show timings in order to avoid crowding.
- Visitors shall use digital mode for payments for booking tickets, food and beverages.
- There shall be proper crowd management in parking lots along with thermal screening of the visitors. Only asymptomatic people will be allowed.
- There will be enforcement of masking, physical distancing, covering of face while coughing/sneezing and regular hand sanitization.
- Carrying food and beverages inside the cinema halls will not be allowed.
SoPs for drama theatres:
- Cast and crew will regularly have their check-ups done.
- Only designated people will be allowed to open the curtains, backstage property, etc.
- Fumigation of sets and green rooms must be conducted on a daily basis.
- Guests will strictly not be allowed in the backstage or the green rooms.
- The management will be responsible to regularly fumigate the auditorium.
- Regular check-ups of child artists has been recommended and they have to use Aarogra Setu app showing safe status.
