Faced with Rs 9,000 cr loss, multiplex industry appeals to Govt to reopen Cinema Halls

The Multiplex Association of India, representing the interests of cinema exhibition industry has appealed to the Government of India to reopen cinema halls with an ongoing campaign #UnlockCinemaSaveJobs. The industry body claims that the rate of losses resulting from closure of cinema halls is at Rs 1500 crores monthly and amount to Rs 9000 crores over the six months. This cinema exhibition industry comprises of 10,000 cinema screens across the country and directly employs more than 2 lakh people.

Also read: ICRA: Post consolidation, expansion in tier II and tier III cities to lead future growth in multiplex industry; multiplex screens to cross 3000 by 2019

During Unlock, malls, airlines, retail, restaurants, gyms, bars, metros and other outdoor services have restarted. The multiplex association argues that “cinemas are better equipped to ensure crowed management in stringent hygienic environments while maintaining applicable social distancing norms.” In an open letter, the industry body lists out the factors that ensure safety in cinemas.

• Only paying patrons visit unlike other events where there are no entry tickets.
• Movie show timings are staggered ensuring there are no crowd buildups.
• Controlled and regulated entry and exits.
• Availability of ample waiting areas.
• Cinemas are professionally managed, hence compliance with SOPs is assured.

The letter argues 85 countries across the globe have fully reopened cinema including China, Korea, UK, France, Italy, Spain, UAE, USA, Singapore, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka with the implementation of the highest degrees of safety protocols and to encouraging response from audiences.

Joy of watching stories unfold on the big screen: the clapping, laughing and tears. We miss it. Can’t wait to have you back at the movies!#UnlockCinemaSaveJobs pic.twitter.com/ViB9P8dOly

— Multiplex Association Of India (@MAofIndia) September 15, 2020