Paralakhemundi: Four cinema halls were sealed in separate incidents here and in Rayagada town after the three theatres witnessed heavy rush of movie goers at the ticket counters in alleged violation of COVID-19 norms, Saturday.
The two cinema halls in Paralakhemundi were identified as Jai Maa and Laxmi cinema halls while Ashoka and Udaya Plaza cinema halls in Rayagada were sealed, Friday. The two halls in Paralakhemundi and one in Rayagada have been sealed until further orders.
Reports said despite awareness drives and strict enforcement, people in various parts of the state continue to flout the COVID-19 norms which are the key to keep the coronavirus at bay.
There was a rush of moviegoers at the ticket counters of the three cinemas screening the Pawan Kalyan starrer ‘Vakeel Saab’ that opened Friday.
The state is now witnessing a surge in COVID-19 cases which has forced the authorities to take stringent actions to curb the spread of the pandemic
The state government Friday increased the penalty amount to Rs 2000 for the first and second offence for people not wearing masks. A fine of Rs 5,000 has been levied on people for subsequent violations.
