Complete lockdown in Chennai, 3 neighbouring districts from June 19 to 30

The decision was taken in view of a rapid increase in coronavirus infections in the state

A surge in the coronavirus (Covid-19) count has prompted the Tamil Nadu government to shut down Chennai and three neighbouring districts from June 19-30.

Other than Chennai, curbs will be imposed in Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, and Chengalpattu. This decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting of the state government on Monday. 

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Monday announced full lockdown for 12 days. He said full lockdown will be implemented in the four districts subject to some relaxations for essential/emergency services.

The medical expert committee, constituted by the Tamil Nadu government, has recommended “tightening” of certain lockdown relaxations in Chennai.

On Monday, Tamil Nadu’s Covid-19 tally crossed 46,000, with 1,843 new cases being reported in the state.

According to a state government statement, hospitals, diagnostic labs, pharmacies, ambulance, and hearse vans are allowed to function. Plying of taxis, autorickshaws, and private vehicles are banned except for medical emergencies. Central and state government offices will function with 33 per cent staff strength. Those living in containment zones need not go to central and state government offices.

Banks can function with 33 per cent staff only on June 29 and 30. ATMs and cash refilling vans will function as usual.

Ration shops will function from 8 am to 2 pm. Ration shops in containment zones will remain closed, while door step delivery of items will be made.

Vegetables, grocery, and petrol outlets will function between 6 am and 2 pm. Mobile vegetable and fruit shops will be allowed between 8 am and 2 pm. Hotels and restaurants are allowed only parcel sales between 6 am and 8 pm. Online players can accept orders and make doorstep deliveries.

The state-run low-cost Amma canteens and community kitchens will function, while non-governmental organisations can provide relief service with government permission. Media and the judiciary are allowed to function.

Workers will not be allowed to travel to their factory from the Chennai Metropolitan area. Continuous process industries and factories making essential items can function with adequate safety measures. Trucks carrying goods and essential items can operate without any hindrance. E-passes will be issued to those wanting to travel out of Chennai for attending a wedding or funeral.

For inbound and outbound trains/planes, the existing procedures will continue. Palaniswami also announced financial assistance of Rs 1,000 for those having rice-only ration cards and members of welfare boards.

Meanwhile, Mumbai’s ‘lifeline’ was back on track after nearly three months, as the Railways on Monday resumed suburban train services for ferrying essential staff. The Central Railway and Western Railway decided to run selective suburban services over the main line and harbour line only for essential staff as defined by the state government, a senior official said. 

“Scaling up services to combat Covid-19, Railways resumes selected local trains in Mumbai from Monday. Catering to essential staff as identified by the state government, trains have eased the lives of people, providing safe and comfortable travel,” Railway Minister Piyush Goyal tweeted.

MIAL to operate 100 flights 

Back on track: The Railways on Monday resumed suburban train services in Mumbai for essential staff. The Central Railway and Western Railway decided to run ‘selective suburban services’ over the main line. Photo: PTI

Mumbai International Airport (MIAL) on Monday said the state government has permitted the airport to double its operations to 100 domestic flights from Tuesday. These include 50 departures and an equal number of arrivals.

“We are glad about the new progress that has come in favour of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, and we continue to relentlessly work towards ensuring the safety of our passengers,” a MIAL spokesperson said.

Maharashtra announces staggered opening of schools

Classes for standards IX, X in schools located in non-red zone areas and junior college for XII would begin in Maharashtra from July 1, the state government said on Monday. Classes of 6th to 8th standards would begin from August. The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and attended by School Education Minister Varsha Gaikwad and officials.