Coronavirus Tamil Nadu: CM Edappadi Palaniswami extends lockdown till April 30

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami has announced that the nationwide lockdown, which was ordered by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 25 until April 14, will now be extended to April 30, in the state in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, which has affected millions leaving thousands dead around the world.

In an official statement addressed to the media, CM Edappadi Palaniswami said the decision to extend the lockdown in Tamil Nadu has come after a video conference with Prime Minister and also while taking into consideration the recommendations of the World Health Organization including the committee of medical experts and health officials. The TN CM said, "Taking into consideration the possibility of the cases rising in the state if the lockdown is not extended and based on the cabinet's decision on April 11, the lockdown has been extended till April 30 as per the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and Section 144 of CrPC,".

The statement further read saying rice cardholders would avail the essential commodities free of cost for the month of May, which will also include a kg of sugar, tur dal, edible oil and the rice. In addition, the unorganized workers' families among whom include construction workers, who will be getting financial support in the form of Rs.1,000 each for the second time with guest labourers availing 15kgs rice, a kg of tur dal and a kg of edible oil free of cost. CM Edappadi Palaniswami also stated that bakeries can function between 6AM-1PM while adding in his press note that takeaway alone will be allowed in restaurants and hotels as per the advisory issued earlier.