New timings for essentials in Tamil Nadu come into effect from Sunday

To reinstate the seriousness of the COVID-19 lockdown in Tamil Nadu, the state government has issued revised timings to suit the needs of people to come into effect from Sunday (March 29).

According to new timings, the shops selling essential items such as vegetables, fruits and, meat will be open from 6 am to 2:30 pm. The same applies for petrol bunks.

Traders importing veggies from other states must supply their goods at the Koyambedu market between 6 am to 6 pm.

However, medical shops and hotels which offer takeaways will be allowed to function from 7 am to 9:30 pm, throughout the day.

Companies like Swiggy, Zomato are also allowed to deliver food starting from 7 am to 9:30 pm, given their delivery boys carry an ID issued by the police department.

The responsibility of checking the health conditions of the delivery agents also lies with the companies concerned.

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Exemptions will be given to unfortunate incidents like funerals where not be more than 20 persons will be allowed.

The gathering should wear proper protective gears including masks and gloves.

The revised timings come amid the reports of arrest of around 5,000 people for violating the lockdown in Tamil Nadu.

Six teams headed by IPS officers have been made by the state police to ensure restriction of movement by the people.