Tirupati: Theatre owners seek relief in power tariffs

Tirupati: The movie screening in the pilgrim city began on Friday after a gap of more than eight months. Though only one theatre has come forward to open its screen for audiences, the response on the first day was more than satisfactory for the theatre management as all the allotted seats were booked by mostly youth who were desperately waiting for watching movies.

Even though the government allowed cinemas to open from October 15, the managements were reluctant for various reasons. Among other things, they have been asking for some reliefs among which rebate in power tariff occupies centre stage. The managements argue that they need to run theatres with 50 per cent seating only and yet consume the same power which will be a big burden on them.

They were seeking power tariff relaxations until things became normal. Also, they were seeking abolition of power charges during the closure of theatres all these months for which the government has not responded yet. As they did not pay them, the department disconnected the electricity connections.

While issues like these still bother them, slowly one theatre after another has been opening in other towns and cities. Following this, the PGR Cinemas in Tirupati was opened on Friday, which attracted several youth on the first day. As the theatre has been screening the latest English movie 'Tenet,' the youth said they were eager to watch it as the film was directed by the famous Christopher Nolan.

Theatre proprietor P Abhishek told The Hans India that they have made available only alternate seats in each row thereby issuing 50 per cent tickets only. Even in washrooms alternate toilets were sealed so that they should not be used. Every visitor should wear a mask without which they will not be allowed. Sanitisers were kept at three places for the convenience of the visitors.

Those working in food courts and security should wear face shields in addition to masks. After every show, fogging will be done in the theatre for which a fogging machine was purchased. "We have paid 50 per cent of pending power charges and have to pay the remaining in due course. Looking for relief from the government in this regard," he averred.

With some new movies getting ready for release later this month, other theatres are also gearing up to open the screens. They are also looking for running those movies released on OTT platform recently and received good response.