Just as COVID-19 cases are gradually coming down in the State, the Telangana government has permitted the reopening of theatres and multiplexes, with 100% capacity, from July 18.  However, most theatres are likely to reopen with new releases from July 23 onwards.

The decision was taken after the members of the Telangana Film Chamber of Commerce (TFCC) met cinematography minister Talasani Srinivas Yadav earlier today.

The members have submitted a representation seeking the opening of cinemas and also requested the government to not collect property tax for the last one-and-half years due to the COVID-19 lockdown. They also urged the government to waive off the power bills and release the GOs for the demands that the government had already agreed upon.

The members have also requested the government to allow them to charge parking fees, permit them to have more than four shows on single screens, waive GST for theatres, and also allow them to adapt to the flexible ticket pricing system.

The minister has assured that the requests of TFCC would be taken to the Chief Minister's notice.

The theatres and multiplexes in Telangana were completely shut down due to the resurgence of COVID-19 in April.

Those who met the minister include Sunil Narang, Abhishek Nama, Sadanand Goud, and Anupam Reddy among others.