Chennai: A bandh like situation prevailed as normal life came to a grinding halt and roads wore a deserted look as a total shutdown, without any relaxations, was observed on Sunday as part of the 12-day intense lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus, in Chennai and its three neighbouring districts.
The lockdown, with strict restrictions, began in Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kanchipuram and Chengalpet districts, where there has been significant increase in positive cases, on 19 June and would be in force till 30 June.
Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswmi while announcing the complete lockdown for 12 days said it would be ‘total and complete’ without any relaxations on Sundays–21 and 28 June, to ensure that people stay indoors.
In line with the Chief Minister’s announcement, a total and complete shutdown was observed Sunday as life came to a grinding halt.
Except milk, medical, pharmacies and hospitals, all other 20 relaxations announced during the 12-day lockdown were not in force. All groceries, vegetable shops, hotels and restaurants, which were allowed to function with restricted timings during the 12-day lockdown, were totally shut.