As a part of Unlock 5.0, to help the opening up of entertainment parks and theatres etc (similar places); the Centre has issued a set of standard operating procedures (SoP) or measures to be followed.

The document notes that since Entertainment Parks and similar places like theatres etc are frequented by a large number of people for leisure and entertainment, it can be an ideal setting for the spread of COVID-19 infection and that therefore, it is important that required physical distancing and other preventive measures are followed in these places.

Though water-themed parks have been allowed to open, no swimming activity will be allowed or encouraged.

Prior to resumption of activities, all work areas, public utility areas and open spaces (including but not limited to rides, museums, gardens, food courts, gift shops, theatres, etc.) shall be sanitized with 1% Sodium Hypochlorite solution.

Thereafter this will be done on a regular basis.

Key points from the SoP

–Digital modes of payment to be encouraged

–Occupancy of the auditorium not to be more than 50%

–Staggered show timings for different screens

–Regular disinfection of all areas of the theatre to be carried out

–Ensure that no patrons spit or litter around

–Adherence to etiquettes regarding coughing, respiratory hygiene to be followed

–Several food counters to be operated so as to avoid crowding

–Patrons’ contact numbers to be recorded so as to facilitate contact tracing in case of a positive case traced

–Sanitisation staff be given adequate provisions for masks, gloves, PPE suits, boots etc.

–Adequate physical distancing to be provided in seating arrangement

–Floor markers to be deployed to manage physical distancing and queues

–Only packaged food and beverages to be sold to patrons and no food to be delivered inside the auditorium

–Purchase of tickets at the box office to be open throughout the day, advance booking to be allowed

–Appeal to the audience to not amble about during intermission

–Enough number of counters at the box office to be operated so as to avoid overcrowding

–Seats in between to be left empty should be marked so

–Provisions for handwash and hand sanitisation

–Self-monitoring of health, infected ones should report whatever the illness

–Installation and use of Aarogya Setu App compulsory

–Thermal screening of all (spectators, staff etc) and only asymptomatic people be allowed in

–Air-conditioning temperatures to be set at range 24-30 deg C

–Public sService spots regarding wearing masks, handwashing, sanitising and social distancing to be screened before the show, after the show and during the intermission

–Adequate number of counters to be run to protect staff and customers

–Any behaviour detrimental to COVID-19 containment to be dealt with immediately