Tamil Nadu government on Monday announced the extension of lockdown in the state till July 31. Lockdown will continue with the existing relaxations. The ongoing total lockdown will be in force from June 30 till July 5 in Chennai and its nearby districts namely Chengalpet, Kanchipuram and Tiruvallur. Likewise, the total lockdown in Madurai and its adjoining areas will also continue from June 30 till July 5. 

Relaxations will be allowed in Chennai and other neighboring areas after July 6. General lockdown will be in effect in Madurai and its nearby areas after July 6 with relaxations that existed before June 24. Dine-in facilities at restaurants and hotels are permitted after July 6 in Chennai and neighbouring areas. The e-pass issued for travel till June 30 will continue to be applicable till July 5 in total lockdown areas. 

Lockdown extension will be in effect in religious congregations and places of worship. The ban will continue in tourist spots. Meat shops in Chennai, other corporations, village panchayats and townships can operate after seeking permission from concerned authorities. E-pass allowed for inter-district travel will continue. E-pass will not be necessary for travel within a district after July 5. All Sundays in July to see complete lockdown across Tamil Nadu. 

Public darshan will be allowed in temples, mosques and churches where annual income is less than Rs. 10,000. Schools and colleges will not function during this lockdown. No restrictions have been enforced for online classes. Government and private buses will not ply till July 15 in districts. All showrooms and big shops except commercial malls have been permitted to function with 50 percent staff from July 6. Restaurants and hotels cannot operate their air-conditioners after July 6. 

The state in its latest directive has also urged the people in the state to adhere to the instructions to be followed to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus. Masks should be worn by all at all times while going out of their homes and social distancing must be adopted as well.