Tamil Nadu government orders 'intense lockdown' in Chennai amid rising COVID-19 cases

Tamil Nadu chief minister chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami ordered an "intense lockdown" in Chennai and other neighbouring districts amid rising coronavirus cases in the state's capital.

“Considering the spread of the virus and based on the recommendation of medical and health experts, an intense lockdown will be in force from 00.00 hours on June 19 and midnight of June 30."

The "intense lockdown" will take place in Ponneri, Minjur town panchayats, Tiruvallur municipality, Greater Chennai Police limits, Gummidipoondi and panchayats of Poonamallee, Ekkadu and Cholavaram.

Tamil Nadu on Monday had reported 44 coronavirus deaths which is the highest for a single day, taking the total death toll to 479. The number of infection cases has risen to 46,504 in the state.

The state had reported 1,843 coronavirus cases in 24 hours on Monday.

The chief minister, however, added that there will be some relaxations for the supply of essential commodities but auto, taxi and private vehicles won't be allowed.

The state and central government staff in the state will operate at 33 per cent strengthwith PDS outlets to remain open between 8pm and 2pm.