The 50% seating capacity limit in cinemas may be reimposed: MAI (Representational)
New Delhi:
Multiplex operators have urged the Delhi government to reconsider their decision and allow them to operate cinema halls with certain ridership such as requiring double vaccination to enter halls and limiting seating capacity to 50 per cent.
According to the Multiplex Association of India (MAI), the Delhi government’s decision to shut theaters in the city while implementing the ‘Yellow’ alert of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has created “huge uncertainty” and “irreparable”. Might be possible. loss” to the Indian film industry.
Instead of shutting down cinema halls, MAI has urged the Delhi government to consider introducing a “double vaccination requirement” to enter cinema halls, as is the case in some other states, including Maharashtra.
“Alternatively, the 50 per cent seating capacity restriction in cinemas could be reimposed. We call on the government to recognize the unique social, cultural and economic value of the Indian film industry, and to provide support. It desperately needs to survive an unprecedented period,” said MAI President Kamal Gyanchandani.
Amid a surge in COVID-19 cases, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority on Tuesday ordered closure of schools, colleges, cinemas and gyms with immediate effect and imposed various restrictions on the functioning of shops and public transport, as Under this, a yellow alert was issued. Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
The ‘yellow’ alert restriction stipulates that shops and establishments of non-essential goods and services and malls will open from 10 am to 8 pm based on the odd-even formula.
According to MAI, the period after March 2020 is unquestionably the most challenging period before Indian cinemas.
After being allowed to reopen, cinemas have already demonstrated their ability to operate safely by adhering to safety protocols for the public and staff.
Gyanchandani said, “While we fully understand the need for taking necessary preventive measures on the part of the government, we would request that cinemas be treated at par with comparable industries and institutions.”
MAI claims to represent more than 18 regional and national multiplex chains and represents around 90 per cent of the multiplex industry in India. Its members operate over 600 multiplexes with over 2900 screens across the country.
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