TN to close beaches, Vandalur zoo, Mamallapuram during Pongal

The Tamil Nadu government on Tuesday (January 11) announced that beaches across the state and certain tourist spots in Chengalpattu district will be closed to the public between January 15 and 17.

The public will also not be allowed entry into Vandalur zoo, tourist spots in Mamallapuram, and the National Park in Guindy during the three days.

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The announcement has been issued as a precautionary measure to curb the spread of COVID-19, especially during the Pongal season when more footfalls are expected in these places, an official release stated.

During the Pongal festivities, people usually visit popular tourist spots, and huge crowds gather in the popular Marina beach during this time of year. Therefore, in anticipation of such huge turnouts amid fear of the spread of COVID-19, the government has temporarily debarred entry.

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The state government also appealed to the public to co-operate and stressed that people must wear masks in public places, ensure they maintain personal distancing, and comply with other guidelines issued to control the spread of COVID-19.