Wednesday, 07 October 2020 | PNS | New Delhi
The Information and Broadcasting Ministry on Tuesday issued strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to re-open cinema theaters from October 15.
The SOP includes filling up only for 50 per cent capacity, keeping one seat vacant between the viewers, and maintaining temperature conditions.
The SOP bars serving cooked food of any kind and says only packaged food and beverages will be allowed for sale at refreshment points. The viewers will not be allowed to carry any food inside the cinema hall.
Releasing the SOP, Minister Prakash Javadekar said local authorities must ensure the guidelines are adhered to along with strict physical distancing norms.
In multi-halls, to prevent the crowding, the SOP has suggested staggered timing also. Mask wearing will be compulsory for viewers and staffers and theater mangers must ensure medical facilities if anybody is feeling uneasy.
“The highlights of the guiding principles include the general principles which have been given by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, including thermal screening of all visitors/staff, adequate physical distancing, use of face covers/masks, frequent hand washing, provision of hand sanitisers, etc and respiratory etiquettes specifically with regard to the exhibition of films,” the I&B Ministry said.
The Ministry said it has formulated the general SOPs taking into consideration international practices notified in the sector, including physical distancing, entry and exit with designated queue markers, sanitisation, safety of staff, contact minimisation.
The SOP said there should be one seat vacant between the viewers and the vacant seat should be marked. The SOP also asked the local PWD authorities to ensure the temperature and air-conditioning norms.
“Temperature setting of all air conditioning devices should be in the range of 24-30°C. Relative humidity should be in the range of 40-70 per cent. Re-circulation of air is to be avoided to the extent possible. Intake of fresh air should be as much as possible. Cross ventilation should be adequate,” said the guidelines.
