Chennai, Jul 16 (IANS): Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Friday announced extension of the lockdown in the state till July 31 with some relaxation.

Among these, Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), industrial schools, and typewriting training institutes can function with 50 per cent of students on a rotational basis.

Strict Covid protocols should be adhered to while opening these institutions, it was ordered.

Teachers are also allowed to visit schools to carry out work relating to admissions, distribution of textbooks, and administrative works.

Schools, Colleges, theaters, bars, and swimming pools will remain closed. Interstate public and private bus transport will remain closed except for the to and fro service to Puducherry.

Already permitted activities will continue in the state except in containment zones. A maximum of 50 people will be permitted for marriage functions and 20 people at funerals or last rites, the statement from the Chief Minister's office said.