Tamil Nadu’s COVID-19 Tally Moves Closer To 50,000 With 1,515 New Cases In 24 Hours; 919 From Chennai Alone

Tamil Nadu reported at least 1,515 new positive COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours, taking the total number of confirmed cases in the state to 48,019, state’s Health Department said on Tuesday (16 June).

The state also reported 49 casualties among COVID-19 patients, which increased state’s death toll to 528. However, on a positive note, 1,438 people got completely cured and discharged in last 24 hours.

Total number of active cases in the state currently stands at 20,076, while 26,782 have been cured so far.

Out of 1,515 cases reported in the entire state, 919 came alone from the capital city of Chennai, which has seen significant rise in cases for a few weeks.

Earlier on Monday, the state announced an intensified lockdown for 12 days from 19 June to 30 June in Chennai and its neighbouring districts of Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram and Chengalpattu, it was reported.

However, essential commodities, items, including vegetables, and fuel will be available between 6 am and 2 pm during the intensive lockdown, an official press release said.

But on 21 and 28 June, there will be a total lockdown with these establishments being closed.

The release said that the lockdown was being implemented under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. It will be in force from 12.01 am on 19 June till 11.59 pm on 30 June.

However, the regulations would be relaxed for emergency services such as hospitals and transport for emergency medical services, besides allowing for 33 per cent attendance in Central and state government offices. Banks can also function with 33 per cent of the staff being allowed in office.