Gurgaon: The Haryana government on Sunday allowed multiplexes and single-screen theatres to open with 50% occupancy provided they follow all Covid safety protocols.
It also increased the cap on guests at weddings and funerals to 100 from 50 earlier. Moreover, spas have been permitted to open from 6am to 8pm at half their capacity. Swimming pools will open too, but only for those who are participating in competitions. Among other relaxations, the government has allowed the National Law University to hold its common admission test on July 23 in the state.
Although the government relaxed many of the norms, it extended the lockdown by a week to July 19.
Cinema operators, who have been out of business since April 30, heaved a sigh of relief. They said the decision to open cinemas was crucial to keep the entertainment industry alive.
“It’s a welcome decision. We are looking forward to resuming operations at the earliest. We had been eagerly waiting for such a move as we could not make any business this year and suffered a loss of around Rs 30-35 crore,” said Sanjay Barjatya, regional head of Miraj Cinemas.
He assured that all Covid safety protocols would be followed. “Since last year, all Covid norms have been in place in our theatre. All our staff have been vaccinated with at least one dose,” Barjatya said.
The theatres are banking on some big releases, such as Bell Bottom, Radhe Shyam and Gangubai Kathiawadi, to recover from the losses. They have also sought a clarification from the government on night curfew so that late shows can be allowed.
“We are waiting for movie schedules. Without any content, opening of cinemas makes no sense. Last year, we were showing jukeboxes and old movies and our business was badly affected. Some big movies are lined up but our industry is a national sector. The permission to open cinemas in one state will not drive movie releases,” said a PVR official.
Other relaxations announced earlier will continue. Colleges will function for practical classes and examinations. Hostels can open only for students taking tests.
