Covid-19 surge forces 12-day intense lockdown in Chennai, nearby areas

CHENNAI: The continuous surge in Covid-19 cases has forced the Tamil Nadu government to announce yet another intense lockdown in Chennai and adjoining parts of three neighbouring districts for 12 days, beginning June 19. Relaxations will be given only to vegetable and grocery shops and fuel pumps. However, people have also been advised not to use vehicles and get their essentials from establishments within 2km of their houses.
Chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Monday announced the lockdown after a meeting with health experts and later with cabinet members. “Considering the spread of the virus and based on consultations with the medical and health experts and cabinet members, we have decided to enforce an intense lockdown from June 19 midnight until June 30 midnight,” he said in a statement.
The CM also announced Rs 1,000 cash support to all ration card holders in areas under intense lockdown and to the members of unorganised welfare boards and other welfare boards. There will be full lockdown on June 21 and 28 (Sundays) with no relaxation. Barring milk supply, hospitals, pharmacies, ambulance, emergency and funeral hearse vans, no other activities will be permitted on Sundays.
Private vehicles will be allowed only for emergency medical needs. With Chennai’s Covid cases crossing 33,000, a worried government took the lockdown decision against the advice of health experts.