Chennai: As there has been a massive rise in the number of corona positive cases, Tamilnadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswmi Monday announced total lockdown in Chennai and its three neighbouring districts from 19 to 30 June, with strict restrictions.
A decision to tighten the lockdown was taken after chairing a meeting with expert medical panel and at a meeting of the State Cabinet.
“Based on the discussions in these meeting, strict lockdown will be in force under Disaster Management Act, 2005, for 12 days from early morning 0000 hrs of June 19 to midnight of 30 June to prevent further spread of COVID-19,” the Chief Minister said in a statement.
Palaniswami said there would be complete lockdown without any relaxations on Sundays, 21 and 28 June.
He said total lockdown would be in place in all areas coming under the Greater Chennai Police limits, which has emerged as the COVID-19 hotspot, with 31,896 of the total 44,661 cases reported in Tamilnadu, and in neighbouring districts of Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram and Chengalpattu.
He also announced Rs 1,000 special assistance for all rice ration cardholders, unorganised sector workers with welfare boards and other workers of various welfare boards in the four districts.
While stating that essential services would be maintained, he announced reduction in the functioning of groceries, vegetable shops and petrol bunks from 0600 hrs to 1400 hrs, besides a total ban on autos. share auto, taxis and private vehicles, except for medical grounds.
Stating that banks, central and state government offices would function with 33 per cent staff strength, Palaniswami said those residing in containment zones need not attend office and should take prior permission from their authorities concerned.
While announcing closure of all tea shops, Palaniswami said hotels and restaurants would be allowed only take aways from 6 am to 8 am, besides online deliveries.
There will be no ban on movement of vehicles carrying essential items and the present guidelines for arrival of trains, flights and ships would continue.
He said those serving aged people, differently-abled and orphanages would be permitted, along with ‘Amma Canteens’ and Community Kitches, besides the print and electronic media.