State government issues ordinance regarding rules and procedures for opening cinemas and theaters!

MUMBAI: The second wave of corona in the state is on the rise and various restrictions have been relaxed by the state government. Also, other items that were closed during the Corona period are being allowed to resume. But, in the meantime, Corona will have to comply with preventive regulations. Against this backdrop, cinemas and theaters across the state are now reopening and an ordinance has been issued by the government. In addition, closed halls, open space events are also allowed to start in a controlled manner.

 
In a circular issued by the state government in this regard, the Chief Minister has announced on September 25, 2021 that cinemas and theaters in the state will be allowed to open after October 22, 2021 in compliance with health norms. Following the announcement, the government has decided to issue guidelines for starting theaters in a controlled manner subject to compliance with the preventive measures mentioned to prevent the spread of corona. Considering the intention of the government to grant this permission, all concerned should operate the theaters in such a manner that they do not violate any restrictions of the Central and State Governments regarding Corona. In case of violation of these guidelines, action will be taken against the concerned as per rules.
Restricted area theaters will not be allowed to reopen. Theaters will be regulated in accordance with the prevailing guidelines of Revenue, Forest, Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation Departments as well as Public Health Departments. Taking into account the local corona situation, the Collector may increase the restrictions in consultation with the concerned government agencies. Marks should be made on the ground at the entrance and in appropriate places as per the standards of safe distance.
Designated persons will be allowed to handle curtains, behind-the-scenes objects, etc. Playwrights and staff are advised to undergo regular medical check-ups. All scenes and rooms for artists should be smoked daily. Schedule regular cleaning of scenes, toilets and dressing rooms, ensure timely cleaning of toilets. Mandatory use of masks, provision of sanitizer, guests will not be allowed in the artist's room.
Also, a sufficient safe distance of at least six feet should always be maintained outside the auditorium, in common areas and in waiting areas. People should be kept out of the queue at a distance to avoid crowds. Theaters will not be used for more than 50 per cent of their total seating capacity. All air conditioners should have a temperature range of 24 to 30 degrees Celsius. Etc. have been suggested.
While entering the auditorium, it will be the responsibility of the auditorium management and organizers to test the body temperature of the spectators through thermal test. The number of spectators should not exceed the limit of 50% of the total seating capacity of the closed hall. It will be necessary to maintain social distance between the platform and the audience in the closed hall as directed by the State Government from time to time. All artists, organizers and staff, except for child artists, must be fully vaccinated against corona. Also, the spectator must have been vaccinated with a corona or indicated that their health condition is safe on the health bridge.