Tamil Nadu CM announces closure of all elementary schools till March 31

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswamy has announced the closure of all elementary schools in the state till this month-end. He has announced a slew of measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in the state. They include the closure of cinema halls and commercial complexes in the taluks of 16 border districts that are situated close to the neighbouring states till March 31.

The Chief Minister has appealed to the public to avoid mass gatherings and travelling to other states for the next fifteen days. He has also asked people to maintain personal hygiene like frequently washing hands. He has urged those with the symptoms of the viral infection to visit hospitals immediately.

Mr Palaniswamy has ordered the release of 60-crore rupees to combat the virus to various urban civic bodies and Integrated Child Development centres. Officials have been directed to disinfect common spaces and places of worship.

Our correspondent reports that quarantine centres are being established close to the international airports in the state.