Unlock 3: Cinema Halls, Gyms likely to open; Schools and metro to remain shut

The process of making SOP for Unlock-3 has been started as Unlock-2 is ending on 31 July. According to sources, cinema hall can be opened in Unlock-3 with social distancing. The Ministry of Information Broadcasting has sent a proposal in this regard to the Ministry of Home Affairs. In which it has been said to open the cinema hall from August 1.

Earlier, several rounds of meetings were held between the Ministry of Information Broadcasting and cinema hall owners. After which the cinema hall owners have agreed to start the theater with 50 per cent audience. However, the ministry wants cinema halls to be opened with 25 per cent seats initially and strict adherence to the rules.

Not only cinema halls, gyms are also likely to be opened in the third phase. States might be given more authority to set their own guidelines according to their coronavirus situation.

However, metro trains and schools are likely to remain closed in Unlock 3.0. HRD ministry began consultation with states on reopening of schools in a meeting chaired by Secretary of School Education, Anita Karwal. HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ had said earlier that feedback and inputs would be sought from parents on the issue. Subsequently, the ministry said that parents are not in favor of the reopening of schools.

Large congregation, which have been banned from the beginning of the lockdown, may continue to be prohibited. The government has already decided to celebrate Independence Day with such restrictions in place and even the At Home at Rashtrapati Bhawan on the afternoon of Independence Day is being scaled down significantly.