THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday announced that cinema theaters in the state will reopen on January 5. He also said that the movie halls would operate by strictly adhering to COVID protocols and with up to 50 per cent capacity. Speaking during the press conference, the CM added that strict action would be taken if the COVID regulations are violated.

The CM explained that cinema theaters have been closed for a year and thousands of people working in connection with cinema are in a big crisis due to this. In view of this, it was decided to open theaters with restrictions, he added.

Since the theatres have remained closed for so long, steps have to be taken to disinfect the cinemas before the opening on January 5. The CM also said that festivals related to places of worship and related cultural activities will be allowed from January 5.