Covid-19: Schools, colleges, malls, theatres, bars to remain shut in Tamil Nadu; board and semester exams to continue

TNN | Mar 16, 2020, 07.10 PM IST

CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government on Monday announced shutdown of educational institutions, anganwadis, malls, theatres, bars, swimming pools, museums and zoos across the state from Tuesday in an effort to contain the spread of Covid-19. The government ordered that the clampdown would last till the month end.

Classes X and XII board examinations, semester examinations in colleges and other entrance examinations will be held as per schedule with adequate precautionary measures, an official release from the government said.

Hostels will function until the end of examination. As an exception, medical and paramedical colleges will function.

No permissions will be granted for processions, public meeting, summer course, sports camps, conferences, expos or cultural events.

The announcement came minutes after a review meeting chaired by chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami in Chennai. The meeting was attended by senior ministers and more than 35 senior IAS officials in the state.

On Sunday, the government announced closure of primary schools across the state, but as cases began swell, the government has announced a larger clampdown.

The government has allowed private events, including marriages, that are planned to be held as per schedule. However, it has said even such events should not have mass gatherings. Marriage halls are not allowed to make new bookings.

The state has advised people not to use the lockdown period as a holiday but to stay safe at home. “People should avoid visiting crowded places like markets, malls, marriages, functions. They should give more importance to personal hygiene," the government release said. It also asked persons with cold and cough not to go to their offices.

The state government advised the public not to travel to other states for the next 15 days.

The state government will take action against people who spread false information through social media or in any other form.

There is a 24-hour control room functioning to provide information with regards to coronavirus. People may contact 104, 044-29510400, 044-29510500, 9444340496, 8754448477.

Bars to remain closed

All bars attached to Tasmac liquor shops will be shut till March 31. However, liquor outlets will continue to function. A senior Tasmac official said bars in star hotels and clubs serving liquor would also come under the ambit of closure covered under the closure.

There are 3188 bars attached to Tasmac liquor shops in the state, of which more than 700 bars are located in the Chennai region comprising the city and neighbouring districts.

However, Tasmac liquor outlets will continue to function.