- One must appreciate the Union Government for meticulously planning Lockdown and Unlock measures ever since the pandemic was declared. Many questioned the abrupt nature of the decision to impose the first Lockdown without announcing in advance, especially considering the hardships faced by the migrant laborers which were heart-rendering and disturbing, but the gigantic demographic reach/spread of our nation would have rendered such a prior announcement more chaotic as well as unmanageable. Hence, most of us would hail the move.
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- Half-a-year later, the whole of the country is making efforts at reverting to pre-pandemic days though the infection is nowhere near control breaking the everyday record in cases with alarming regularity. Subsequent Unlock measures have systematically allowed the opening of crucial economic sectors under stringent guidelines to maintain desired health/hygiene standards. Except for cinema halls, swimming pools, and educational institutions for students below Grade 12, all other sectors are being allowed to resume activities.
- As regards cinema halls, there are practical challenges as also financial feasibility angle to consider before opening the sector as adhering to social distancing norms might not be beneficial to either the screening proprietor or the viewing public who are expected to shell out an additional charge to make good the depleted seating arrangements. Thus, half-filled halls will be a big no-no, apart from the social distancing necessities, for all the stakeholders concerned. Waiting is inevitable.
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- Hence, Over-The-Top (OTT) movie releases might be the flavor for some more time for not so big-budgeted films, while the bigger production houses will continue to wait and hope the scenario improves soon for conventional releases to resume. Most importantly, an apprehensive audience will have to feel safe, secure, and confident enough to venture out to experience entertainment that is missing for months on now. As such, it might take a few months to ease into acceptance mode for the paying public.
- Buttressing the argument, unlocked Malls and Mass Public Transport – except Metro Train Services – are yet to pick up speed after the resumption as people continue to exercise precautions amidst rising fears of contracting the virus. Now that the Metro Train Services are set to resume from 07th September by observing mandatory standards, expect lesser footfalls for the initial few months. Bars and pubs too are allowed now. Trust me, the struggle for reaching happier times is fraught with mounting challenges for sure.
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- The only remaining sector which is extremely sensitive demanding utmost care and caution is to allow the opening of educational institutes. The latest guidelines allow Grade 9 to 12 students to visit schools in batches for clarifications albeit after obtaining written consent from the parents. A welcome confidence-building measure. Ultimately, it all depends on how quickly the virus plateaus or flattens out as also inventing an effective vaccine. Till such time, lips on prayers and hopes in our hearts should sail us through this difficult situation.
