How Tamil Nadu and its people are coping with the lockdown: A ground report

While the administrative machinery has been tough on violators, it has also put in place provisions to make the lives of the people easier

Vandalur is the entry point to Chennai from southern Tamil Nadu, where at least 80 per cent of the population lives. The area has always been chocked and it would take no less than an hour and a half on normal days and 2-3 hours during weekends to pass through. Today, however, the road is deserted and heavily guarded by policemen, who neither allow vehicles to enter nor leave the city. The situation is the same at the seven other entry points to the city, and nobody can enter or exit Chennai unless he or she is carting essentials or