As the corona virus cases are increasing, many state has already declared the extension in lockdown but with some relaxation and new policies.
Edappadi K Palanisamy Chief minister of Tamil Nadu has also extended the lockdown in the state till August 31 but with more
relaxations, including allowing private establishments to scale up workforce and permitting dine-in services in hotels and restaurants.
CM Edappadi said,” for Independence day celebrations, the state would adhere to the guidelines provided by the Centre.”
“The lockdown extension is done based on views expressed by the district collectors during a video-conference on Wednesday and public health experts on Thursday, also in consultation with the senior ministers,” the CM said.
Grocery and other provisional stores, which were earlier allowed to function between 6 am and 6 pm, can now operate till 7 pm. Other shops that were allowed to operate between 10 am and 6 pm can now function till 7 pm.
E-commerce companies are now allowed to ship both essential and non-essential items. However, Section 144, which restricts more than five persons to gather at a place, will continue.
Delivery of goods, including non-essential items, by ecommerce sites is permitted from August 1.
Restaurants are permitted to function between 6am and 7pm with dine-in facilities, with 50% seating capacity and by maintaining social distancing. Air-conditioners should not be switched on. Take away service is allowed between 6am and 9pm.
Teashops are also allowed to function subject to 50% seating capacity between 6am and 7pm. Similarly, vegetable shops and grocery shops are permitted between 6am and 7pm. All other shops will be permitted to open between 10am and 7pm.
The government has decided to allow public worship in small temples in panchayats, town panchayats and municipalities with annual income of less than Rs 10,000 as per the standard operating procedure issued earlier. It is also permitted at small mosques, darghas, churches and other religious places.
“Public worship will not be allowed in religious places in corporations,” the chief minister said.
