Cinemas, theaters, multiplexes authorized to reopen with 25% capacity

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have allowed cinemas, theaters and multiplexes to reopen with 25% seating after being closed for months due to the second wave of Covid-19.
The decision was taken by the State Executive Committee (SEC) after a detailed review of the Covid-19 situation in Jammu and Kashmir. However, most of the restrictions imposed by the Covid-19 have been maintained on the territory of the Union, in particular the night curfew and the closure of schools except for classes 10 and 12.
SEC Chief Secretary and Chairman AK Mehta said cinemas, theaters and multiplexes are allowed to operate at 25% capacity provided management ensures strict adherence to appropriate Covid behavior .
Read also: Jammu: At least one dose of Covid vaccine required to enter offices, shopping malls
“All district magistrates and police superintendents must ensure compliance,” the order said.
The ordinance required that the maximum number of people allowed to attend any indoor or outdoor gathering be strictly limited to 25. However, in banquet halls in districts with a positivity rate of less than 0.2 and a weekly workload less than 250, assembly is permitted up to 25 percent of the permitted capacity, preferably in open spaces, for vaccinated persons or persons with a verifiable RT-PCR or RAT report not older than 72 hours , he added.
Mehta said there would be no weekend curfew in any district, but the nighttime curfew would remain in effect in all districts from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. Districts with a positivity rate of less than 0.2 and a weekly workload of less than 250 will observe a nighttime curfew from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
In view of the high incidence of cases in Srinagar district, the ordinance indicated that special campaigns would be organized to dramatically increase vaccination against Covid.
Regarding educational institutions, the decree said that the classes for the 10th and 12th standards would continue to operate in accordance with the instructions already issued, while the other classes would remain suspended.
“Schools, with the exception of the flexibilities planned for 12th and 10th grade students, will continue to remain closed for in-person instruction,” he said, adding that coaching centers for utilities, Engineering and NEETs would also continue to operate as per already published guidelines, while the rest of the coaching center would remain closed for on-site or in-person teaching.
The order called for the intensification of Covid-19 testing and the necessary measures against violators of appropriate Covid behavior.
Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our app now !!