The limitations for business establishments continued and while grocery shops, fuel stations and hotels were allowed to work till 6 am to 2 pm. Pharmacies were allowed to function as usual.

 Collector T.G. Vinay, when contacted, said ‘we are doing our best to identify Covid cases by organising fever clinics across the city and in vulnerable areas in the neighbourhood.”

 Further, sources said, to ensure that restrictions were imposed in full swing, unnecessary movement of vehicles was being curbed through strict checks by the police in areas with high case load. A total of 20 check posts have been put up across the city.

 As many as 1,568 cops have been deployed in various parts of the city to check lockdown violators. People moving in their vehicles including bikes and cars were being questioned and subjected to checks at key junctions, including Kalavasal. Many were fined as they failed to give valid reason for their travel. The lockdown violators, many of whom without face masks, were handed out spot fines.

 With concerted efforts of policemen and ten flying squads, comprising officials from the Department of Revenue, restrictions were being strictly implemented.

 As far as hotels are concerned, only 10 per cent of eateries with parcel service in the Temple City were operating. K.L. Kumar, president, Madurai Hotel Owners Association, said, “though some hotels are open, only around 10 to 20 per cent of business is being done.” 

However, the association has already decided not to resume dine-in services till July 31 to cooperate with authorities in containing the spread.