The Bistupur-based PJP Cinepolis , the state's first six-screen multiplex, was converted into a Covid-19 vaccination centre on Thursday, making it the first such initiative in the state.

The vaccination was being given to the age group of 18 and 44 years. It saw big draws of families, students, businessmen and corporate executives.

Located on the second floor of the plush P&M Hi-Tech City Centre Mall on the Outer Circle Road in Bistupur, the 1,042 seater multiplex was the fourth vaccination centre in Steel City after Loyola School in Bistupur, Tata Workers' Union school in Kadma and RVS Academy in Mango.

"The vaccination drive at the new centre which began at around 10 am this morning will continue till the evening. The health department has set a target of providing 1000 Covishield vaccines at this centre on the first day, "said Ravi Bharti, city manager of Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee, who was overseeing the vaccination drive at the PJP Cinepolis.

He said of the six-screen multiplex five were being used as waiting and vaccination areas, while the other one was utilised as an observation area.

According to Bharti, deputy commissioner of East Singhbhum Suraj Kumar and district civil surgeon A.K. Lal gave necessary directives to officials manning the centre for ensuring hassle-free vaccination process.

A nurse administers Covishield to a woman at the PJP Cinepolis located in Bistupur -based P&M Hi-Tech City Centre Mall, which was turned into a vaccination centre on Thursday. Pic by Bhola Prasad

Physical distancing norms and other Covid protocols were followed among those who had come for vaccination.

Vaccines were administered in strict adherence to tokens issued.

Officials of the health department said only those between the age group of 18 and 44 years who have booked online slots will be eligible for vaccination.

Those who had come for vaccination at the mall on the first day were happy.

"Thanks to the district administration and health department for selecting PJP Cinepolis as one of the vaccination centres. Four members of my family got vaccinated at the centre under the comforts of AC and proper arrangement. The management of the multiplex and the mall also ensured proper Covid protocols, "said Atul Agarwal, a businessman who stays at Bistupur.

PJP Cinepolis is a joint venture between noted director Prakash Jha's Production and Mexican Plex chain Cinepolis.