New seating arrangements, cleanliness protocols: Multiplex Association of India submits a detailed safety plan for opening theatres after lockdown to I&B Ministry

By Vandana Srivastawa

on May 20, 2020

The entire country is currently going through the fourth phase of the lockdown due to the Coronavirus outbreak. However, with each passing day there are positive changes and things are starting to get back to normalcy with government easing the restrictions while adhering to precautions. The lockdown severely hit several industries including the entertainment industry where everything came to a standstill and theatrical releases were banned. Shutting down theatres was the first thing that was put in place when the Coronavirus outbreak started in India.

The decision affected Bollywood’s business and many felt losses and lost employment. Now, the Multiplex Association of India finally submitted a tightly sealed and stringent plan which is made keeping in mind all the precautions and safety measures that need to be followed when the cinema halls will reopen. The plan takes into accordance with enhanced safety and cleanliness guidelines for the first two months after the theatres open and will later be reviewed. The plan was submitted to the Information & Broadcasting Ministry and various state governments today.

#BreakingNews... Multiplex Association of India submits enhanced safety and precautions plan for cinemas to Information & Broadcasting Ministry and various state governments... VERY IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENT... pic.twitter.com/Ssof6kZcIk

— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) May 20, 2020

The changes include deep cleaning and sanitization of all areas around the theatre at regular intervals. Viewers will be asked to have minimal contact with staff at the cinema halls with e-tickets and e-orders for food and drinks. Use of body temperature detectors, sanitizers and masks will become a regular part of the drill every time you’ll step into a cinema hall as well as wearing a mask will be compulsory. Staff at the cinema hall will undergo thorough medical check-ups before they are allowed, the viewers will also be placed separately inside the hall.

Social distancing will also be put into place. While couples and families will be able to sit together but the seat adjacent to them will be left empty.

(Source: Twitter)