Chennai, May 4 (IANS): The lockdown relaxations in non-containment zones is helping life slowly limp back to a semblance of normalcy in Tamil Nadu capital and other places across the southern state.

The roads deserted ever since the lockdown was imposed in March saw movement of two- wheelers and private cars, even as public transport, including taxis and auto-rickshaws, are still off roads.

The government had permitted central and state government offices to reopen with 33 per cent staff in attendance.

As grocery stores have now been allowed to open till 5 pm, there were no queues outside as was the case earlier, said a shopowner.

The state government had allowed opening of hardware stores -- outlets selling building and related material -- there were some which opened for business after a long gap.

In the state capital, the main arterial road -- Anna Salai -- was reopened to the public after a long gap. However, police allowed only those with genuine reasons to use the road.

As per government orders, malls, movie theatres, temples, schools, and colleges continued to be closed.