One week into the Tamil Nadu government easing COVID-19 restrictions in the state, several hundred people gathered at Marina beach, Vandalur zoo and other recreational places in Chennai and neighbouring districts in the state on Sunday, August 29. Photographs of the public flouting COVID-19 rules, such as skipping face masks and non-adherence to physical distancing norms, are being shared widely on social media.

According to a TOI report on Monday, August 30, the Vandalur zoo had 7,500 visitors on Sunday, August 29 while 3,285 people visited the Children’s Park. The numbers are said to be higher than the count on Saturday, August 28. Meanwhile, tourist spots on East Coast Road (ECR) such as Mamallapuram and Muttukadu boat house also witnessed huge crowds.

The Tamil Nadu government on August 21 further eased lockdown restrictions across the state. As part of the relaxations, the government allowed beaches to be opened for the public from August 23 along with zoos and botanical gardens. As August 29 was the first Sunday when beaches were open after a four-month long break, Marina beach in Chennai witnessed hundreds of people, a majority not wearing face masks. Officials noted that the beach would be closed once again if COVID-19 safety protocols are not followed.

As part of the relaxations, the government had allowed theatres and swimming pools in the state to function with 50% occupancy. Bars attached to hotels and clubs, and creches are also allowed to function with vaccinated staff. Additionally, shops are allowed to open till 10 pm. These restrictions will be in place till 6 am on September 6.

As per the daily COVID-19 bulletin, Tamil Nadu recorded 1,538 new cases on Sunday. Of them, Coimbatore district recorded 209 new cases, the highest in the state, while Chengalpattu district recorded 108 cases, Chennai recorded 189 cases and Erode recorded 132 cases.

On Sunday, Dindigul, Ramanathapuram, Theni and Thoothukudi districts recorded less than 10 new cases.