With curbs, exhibitors decide to suspend operations

Only a few theatres to screen ‘Vakeel Saab’

Hours after issuing orders imposing night curfew to check the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), the government has announced restrictions on screening of shows in cinema theatres. Accordingly, screening of movies in theatres across the State should close by 8 p.m. in line with the restrictions imposed on shops, offices and other establishments across the State. Steps should be taken to ensure that all persons including staff, audience and vendors wear masks and hand sanitisers are placed at entry/exit points and common areas in the theatres. Managements were directed to follow physical distancing and put in place COVID-19 management measures. Sanitation of the premises was made mandatory after every screening and show timings should be staggered in such a way that intervals of different shows did not occur simultaneously. The restrictions would be in place till 5 pm on May 1, Chief Secretary Somesh Kumar said in the orders issued on Tuesday evening.