<p>The state government on Tuesday permitted social events and functions to have up to 500 persons, but seating in cinema halls will remain capped at 50% for the time being as a precautionary measure considering "the possible second wave" of Covid-19.</p>.<p>In a fresh set of guidelines, Chief Secretary P Ravi Kumar said the cap of 50% seating capacity for theatres will continue till February 28 even as the Centre has permitted houseful shows. He said this was done "after reviewing the current scenario of Covid-19 and also considering the possible second wave" and as "a matter of abundant precaution and in the larger interest of public health."</p>.<p>For marriages, birthday celebrations, death ceremonies and other such events, a maximum of 500 persons will be allowed, the circular stated. This has been decided to ensure physical distancing of 3.25 sqm per person. So, a 1,000 sqm area can have a maximum of 376 persons whereas a 500 sqm place should have not more than 158 people.</p>.<p>This calculation - 3.25 sqm per person - will apply to yoga centres and gyms as well.</p>.<p>Hotels and restaurants can operate without exceeding their full seating capacity.</p>.<p>For offices, the government will allow full attendance while suggesting that the work-from-home system should continue wherever feasible. In industries and commercial establishments, full attendance is permitted.</p>.<p>Entry into shops, malls, multiplexes and entertainment parks will depend on the size of the place, Kumar said in the circular. "Special events that attract crowds shall be avoided."</p>.<p>"As the threat of Covid-19 pandemic is still not receded, but showing a declining trend in the recent times in the state, it would be prudent and advisable not to let the guard down and continue Covid-19 precautions in public areas..." Kumar said, referring to face masks, hand sanitiser, thermal screening and so on.</p>
<p>The state government on Tuesday permitted social events and functions to have up to 500 persons, but seating in cinema halls will remain capped at 50% for the time being as a precautionary measure considering "the possible second wave" of Covid-19.</p>.<p>In a fresh set of guidelines, Chief Secretary P Ravi Kumar said the cap of 50% seating capacity for theatres will continue till February 28 even as the Centre has permitted houseful shows. He said this was done "after reviewing the current scenario of Covid-19 and also considering the possible second wave" and as "a matter of abundant precaution and in the larger interest of public health."</p>.<p>For marriages, birthday celebrations, death ceremonies and other such events, a maximum of 500 persons will be allowed, the circular stated. This has been decided to ensure physical distancing of 3.25 sqm per person. So, a 1,000 sqm area can have a maximum of 376 persons whereas a 500 sqm place should have not more than 158 people.</p>.<p>This calculation - 3.25 sqm per person - will apply to yoga centres and gyms as well.</p>.<p>Hotels and restaurants can operate without exceeding their full seating capacity.</p>.<p>For offices, the government will allow full attendance while suggesting that the work-from-home system should continue wherever feasible. In industries and commercial establishments, full attendance is permitted.</p>.<p>Entry into shops, malls, multiplexes and entertainment parks will depend on the size of the place, Kumar said in the circular. "Special events that attract crowds shall be avoided."</p>.<p>"As the threat of Covid-19 pandemic is still not receded, but showing a declining trend in the recent times in the state, it would be prudent and advisable not to let the guard down and continue Covid-19 precautions in public areas..." Kumar said, referring to face masks, hand sanitiser, thermal screening and so on.</p>
