7-day full lockdown in Madurai after COVID-19 cases surge

Madurai in Tamil Nadu have clamped a 7-day full lockdown which came into effect yesterday and is likely to be in force till the end of this month. The move is aimed at containing the recent surge in fresh Covid-19 cases in the city and its suburbs. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu witnessed 2516 new Covid-19 cases yesterday, taking the total to 64,603.

Madurai joins Chennai in the state in going for the complete lockdown, which many say is a lockdown within the lockdown, the reason being the soaring new cases of Covid-19. The measure is aimed at breaking the chain of the spread of the elusive virus. Along with Madurai, its suburbs and adjacent villages also come under the intensified lockdown as they form a contiguous area.

However, retail outlets of essentials can function upto 2 pm including fuel stations. Health facilities can function without any restrictions, though vehicular movement is permitted bare to the minimum.

Meanwhile, the state Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswamy is slated to interact with all the district collectors today to review the current situation.