Chennai, May 24 -- The Tamil Nadu government on Sunday came under the criticism of health experts as hundreds of people thronged markets and showrooms amid a weekend relaxation on services ahead of the complete week-long lockdown from Monday.

Barring shopping malls, all shops, delivering both essential and non-essential services, were allowed to run till 9 pm to allow the public to gather enough supplies ahead of the shutdown. However, the decision not only led to panic buying but people were seen shopping for textiles, jewellery among other items, leading to intense traffic in areas such as Chennai, Madurai and Trichy.

Shops selling groceries and vegetables will remain shut during the lockdown period. Only the horticulture department w...