NEW LOCKDOWN RELAXATIONS FROM MAY 11: TN GOVT ALLOWS PRIVATE OFFICES, MORE SHOPS TO FUNCTION, EXTENDS TIME FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES!

The Tamil Nadu government announced major relaxations in the state amid the lockdown period which will begin from May 11. However, these relaxations will not be applicable in containment zones.

As per the announcement, shops selling essential products like groceries, fruits and vegetables will be allowed to function from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm. While standalone and other surrounding shops can function from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm in Chennai. 

Highlighting about private establishments in Chennai, they will be allowed to operate from 10.30 am to 6:00 pm only with a 33 percent of the total workforce. While, those outside Chennai can stay open till 7:00 pm, but follow the 33 percent rule.

Coming to the other sections; 

- Petrol pumps on state and central highways can be open 24x7, while in towns and cities it will be allowed between 6:00 am and 8:00 pm.

- Tea shops across Tamil Nadu have been allowed to function from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm, but can only offer takeaways.

Meanwhile, other restrictions by the centre and state government, will continue to be enforced till further orders. 

Last month, Tamil Nadu announced an "intense lockdown" in five major cities that resulted in recording nearly 50 percent of its cases.