Supply of groceries in Tamil Nadu will be facilitated through government departments (File)
Tamil Nadu today further extended the COVID-19 lockdown in the state till 6 am on June 7 amid the second wave of infections and the vaccination slowdown. The earlier period of restrictions was to end on May 31.
"Public should avoid crowds and stepping out of their homes. I request you to follow Covid norms and seek medical help if you experience symptoms," Chief Minister MK Stalin appealed in a statement.
The provision stores, with the permission of local bodies, would be allowed to sell commodities in their respective areas through vehicles like mini cargo vans or pushcarts. The delivery of groceries through online mode will be allowed between 7 am and 6 pm.
The existing arrangement to sell vegetables and fruits in residential neighbourhoods through mobile outlets would continue.
Chief Minister MK Stalin has instructed the distribution of a kit containing 13 provision supplies to every rice ration cardholder through ration shops for June.
There will not be any restriction on medical services, pharmacies and vaccination in the state. Only takeaways are allowed at restaurants.
The state government has constituted a special task force to tackle Mucormycosis, dubbed Black Fungus that is reported in patients recovering from Covid-19 infection.
In neighbouring Karnataka, the restrictions are in place till June 7; while in Kerala it is till May 30.
Strained by vaccine shortages, most states have taken to lockdown restrictions to cut the transmission cycle.
Earlier in the day, Delhi said it will begin unlocking gradually from Monday. The national capital has been in lockdown since April 19.