Deepkamal Kaur

Deepkamal Kaur

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, October 6

Another 10 days and the cine lovers can expect some breather. Finally, after a gap of nearly seven months, Jalandhar residents will most likely be able to watch new film releases on big screens of the multiplexes.

Most theatres are so far locked and the owners are waiting for a notification from the state after the Centre issued directions allowing theatres to start operation from October 15. “We are also yet to receive SOPs from the state government on how to run the theatres in pandemic using the required safety measures. But in any case, we are gearing up to open theatres from October 15. We will soon call in staff and begin preparations,” said Onkar, who supervises the functioning of PVR Malls in Jalandhar.

A PVR operator shared, “Even though the guidelines are yet to come, we have already done some planning. There will be a full Covid prevention plan that will be implemented. Sanitisation will have to be done after every show. We may have to open to a lesser capacity and some seats will be blocked to have social distancing. Multiple sanitisation facilities will have to be given. Crowd management will also have to be done. E-ticketing will be encouraged. We also may have touch-less ticket scanning system. There might also be fewer shows to begin with.”

PRO of the MBD Malls Sandeep Dua said, “We are also set to open in the next 10 days and are expecting directions from the government and our company. Jalandharites are also excited with the announcement regarding the opening of multiplexes that people have already begun making inquiry calls. Bored of staying at home, they are looking for a change, entertainment and drama. So, we are expecting a good response right from the beginning.”

Gurjot Kaur of Sarb Multiplex, said, “We too are in the process of holding a meeting in a few days to chart out a final plan. In the meantime, we are also waiting for the government instructions.”