The Centre passed a directive to all states and recommended that E-Passes be abolished for inter-state travel according to sources in the government. However, Tamil Nadu government is reluctant in doing so.
Tamil Nadu officials are in favour of continuing the E-Pass system, reported the Times of India. The state has however, eased the restrictions on travelling by making the issuance of E-Pass automatic. However, a final decision is scheduled to be taken on August 29, by the Chief Minister, Edappadi K Palaniswami.
On Monday, at a review meeting, several district collectors pointed out that they have accounted for a spurt in cases ever since the automated system for issuance of E-Passes began, on August 17. Greater Chennai Corporation reported that five lakh people arrived in the city as soon as the norms were relaxed.
Further, the CM believes that it will become difficult to trace contacts if E-Passes are to e scrapped. Officials fear that the efforts taken to control the spread might go to waste at once. Health Minister Vijayabaskar said, “Relaxation of e-pass is a challenge to the health department. I would also say the spread of coronavirus is not due to travel. People should wear masks, wash hands and maintain social distancing norms. Unnecessary travel must be avoided, and vulnerable groups should definitely avoid travel.”
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