CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin has said lockdown relaxations, which came into force on Monday (June 14), could be withdrawn any time if people do not follow Covid-19 norms.
If people show restraint, the state could move ahead and permit public transport and reopen schools and colleges, Stalin said.
In a video appeal, released on Monday morning, Stalin thanked the people for following the norms in the past few weeks and helping the state bring down the Covid numbers.
“A few weeks ago, daily Covid cases had crossed 36,000 and experts were expecting it to touch 50,000.
That is when we decided to impose full lockdown.
Due to the efforts of the government and support of people, we are able to bring down the numbers below 15,000.
We have only brought the corona spread under control and not eradicated it completely,” Stalin said, while cautioning the public not to relax in adhering to Covid norms.
He said relaxations were being introduced step by step to help the livelihood of the people.
People should not crowd at tea shops and should follow Covid norms at all times.
Avoid going out unnecessarily, he said.
“Despite being aware of attracting criticism, the government has permitted reopening of Tasmac outlets.
We do not want people to suffer by consuming illicit arrack and smuggled liquor, ” Stalin said.