MUMBAI: In the light of Covid-19 resurgence, Maharashtra government has maintained maximum seating capacity for theatres and auditoriums at 50% and banned use of such premises for all gatherings barring those related to the arts.
The rule will be in force till March 31. Cinema halls, auditoriums, theatres and restaurants were allowed to resume business in November last year but at 50% capacity.
Also, private offices will be allowed to continue functioning at 50% capacity by following Covid19 norms, while in case of government and semi-government sector, the office head will decide on attendance and ensure adherence to protocols.
The manufacturing sector can work at full capacity. However, industries are advised to reduce workforce to ensure social distancing. And for purposes of maintaining social distancing, they may be allowed to increase shifts with approval from authorities.
Gujarati actress Sujata Mehta said, “Private halls, like the one in Prime Mall in Vile Parle and others in Malad are operating at 50% capacity only. We have held shows in the Parle hall with just 40-45 people where capacity is 90. We even denied entry to patrons once that capacity was crossed and they had to return. We have two shows coming up on Saturday-Sunday, and we are upturning each alternate chair to keep physical distance. Other halls are taping their chairs to render them unusable."