After Akshay Kumar, over 40 crew members of ‘Ram Setu’ test positive for COVID-19, shoot halted

Pune: A day after Akshay Kumar tested positive for the coronavirus, 45 crew members on Ram Setu sets have also tested positive for COVID-19.

The tests were mandatory as the shoot of the film was set to begin at a new location in Mumbai from Monday.

While more than 100 people were tested as a precautionary measure, the results of 45 people came positive.

The shoot has now been halted.

Akshay, meanwhile, has been hospitalised on Sunday.

Akshay Kumar wrote, “I wish to inform everyone that earlier this morning I tested positive for Covid-19. Following all the protocols, I have immediately isolated myself. I’m under home quarantine and have sought necessary medical care. I would sincerely request all those that have come in contact with me to get themselves tested and take care. Back in action soon.”

In order to break the chain, the state government has announced fresh restrictions, including a weekend lockdown. While film and TV units have been allowed to continue to shoot over the weekend, the government has asked the production team to work with only 33 per cent of crew members with due safety norms in place. They have also been told not to shoot big dance and fight scenes.

The Maharashtra government in its new guidelines has also asked that starting April 10, cast and crew will have to carry a negative RT-PCR certificate before they come to shoot, which would be valid for 15 days. Apart from that, it has also encouraged the creation of a quarantine bubble for artists and staff. (UNI)