Move to retain e-pass is well thought out: CM

Move to retain e-pass is well thought out: CM

Bosco.Dominique@timesgroup.com

Cuddalore: 28.08.2020

Chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Thursday said the e-pass system is necessary to monitor the movement of people in the present pandemic scenario and to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in the state.

A few days ago, the Centre directed states and Union territories to abolish the e-pass system for inter-state and intra-state travel. Tamil Nadu brought in relaxations to epass issuance instead.

“The government issues epass to all those who apply for it. But people must apply only in case of emergencies and for absolutely necessary reasons. E-pass will help in contact tracing and test and treat all of them. It (continuing e-pass system) is a decision taken after careful consideration and discussion with experts. Covid-19 is a deadly disease, it is a matter of life and death. Several people have lost their lives to the infection,” Palaniswami said while speaking to reporters.

He was in Cuddalore on Thursday to review the pandemic situation and healthcare infrastructure.

The CM said the government will decide on several relaxation measures, including reopening places of worship in the state, during the meeting of district collectors on August 29.

He said the government’s stand is to hold the National Eligibility and Entrance Test (Neet) only after the infection is brought under control. “I had written to the Prime Minister on July 8 requesting him not to hold Neet until the infection is controlled. Our health minister has also written to the Union health and family welfare minister about it,” he said.

TN only state to bag investments after Covid struck: EPS

Nagapattinam:

Tamil Nadu was the only state in the country to attract investments even during the Covid-19 period, CM Edappadi K Palaniswami said in Nagapattinam on Thursday. As a result, the state’s gross domestic product is at 8% against the countr y’s GDP of 4%, he said. He was speaking at a meeting with farmers, industrialists and self-help group members while reviewing Covid-19 preventive measures. “We are creating more jobs by attracting investments. When the GDP rate is remaining 4% in the country, it stands at 8% in Tamil Nadu”, the chief minister said. TNN