Cinemas, theatres in dire straits after 100-day closure

RAWALPINDI:

The province-wide closure of cinemas, cineplexes, and theatres due to the novel coronavirus-induced lockdown has now lasted for over 100 days.

The extended closure has left these establishments in dire economic straits. The extended lockdown has not only halted screening of movies but it has also stopped the shooting of new movies and performance of plays, impacting not only the future of these establishments but those associated with the entire film and theatre industry.

Several female artists have opened boutiques to manage their finances while most of the male artists have switched over private television channels.

The twin cities only have three cinemas which screen new and old movies along with 13 cineplexes in parks and malls. Stage dramas used to be performed at the Arts Council, Moti Mahal, Shabstan, and Rialto, but they too have suffered the same fate as cinemas.

The district administration had refused a request to reopen these establishments even when the owners of these establishments assured that social distancing guidelines will be strictly followed.

The artists have demanded to reopen cinemas, theatres and sets whilst maintaining strict social distancing SOPs.

Artists and Directors Association President Munawar Khan Afridi said while the government has given relaxation in recreation tax, all recreational institutions remain closed. The senior artist demanded that cineplexes, theatres, and cinemas should reopen.

Meanwhile, the coronavirus-induced lockdown has suspended the Metro Bus service for over 100 days creating serious financial constraints for the company.

The bus service may go bankrupt if the closure extends for next week, officials of the company said adding that except Metro Bus other public transport was fully operational.

Metro Bus was a cheap, good, easily approachable, and fully air-conditioned service for the twin cities, which remained operational from 7am-11pm on the route.

The extended suspension has deflated the tires of buses parked at the terminal while the buses have turned into banger and corrosive. The metro bus stations have also turned into dilapidated conditions. Malik Saleh Muhammad Advocate would file the petition next week, in which the deputy commissioner Rawalpindi, bus authority, and transport authority would be made the respondents.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 5^th, 2020.