Tamil Nadu Relaxes COVID-19 Curbs; Schools, Movie Theatres Allowed To Reopen

In new guidelines, state government has allowed schools, movie theatres, sport centres, and bars to reopen.

Tamil Nadu eases COVID-19 curbs. Movie theatres are allowed to reopen with 100 percent occupancy. Image used for representational purpose only.

(Photo Courtesy: INOX)

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced on Saturday, 23 October, an extension of COVID-19 lockdown in the state till 15 November, but with several relaxations, The Indian Express reported.

The decision to lift certain restrictions was made after a meeting to review COVID-19 situation. It was chaired by the chief minister at the Secretariat, said the official press release.

What Has Been Allowed in the State?

• Movie theatres in the state can function with 100 percent occupancy from 1 November.

• Movie shootings have been allowed, but the crew must be fully vaccinated and should follow COVID-19 protocols.

• The 11 pm deadline for shops and restaurants will be lifted.

• Intra-district and inter-district public transport in ordinary and air-conditioned buses will be allowed with 100 percent seat occupancy. (This does not apply to buses going from Tamil Nadu to Kerala.)

• Schools will be allowed to reopen on a rotational basis for Classes 1 to 8 from 1 November onwards.

• Indoor and outdoor sports, sports training, and use of swimming pools for ‘therapeutic purposes’ have been allowed with immediate effect.

• Indoor cultural programmes are allowed.

• Bars and standalone bars are allowed to reopen.

Tamil Nadu government has continued its ban on all political, religious, and cultural events, as they can potentially turn into into super-spreaders.

(With inputs from The Indian Express.)