According to Corporation sources, apart from the staff working in the field, around 65 employees, who are all based in the Ripon Building - the civic body headquarters - have contracted the virus. “Even though the government allowed its offices to function only with 50 per cent of employees, the Corporation has asked all the employees to report to duty,” a lower-ranked official said.

Meanwhile, it is learnt that the Corporation issued an order to its employees to come to the office citing that they are essential for controlling the disease. Despite the Ripon Building witnessing 100 per cent attendance, safety measures taken at the premises are inadequate. “We visit the office every day with the fear of contracting the virus. But, we do not have any other option,” he added. When asked a senior official of the Corporation, he said that all the employees are engaged in COVID control works. “Even engineers are taking part in the work along with the Health Department. They support the employees in the field from the headquarters. All the workers are in the forefront,” the official said. He also added that the administration has provided masks to the employees and hand wash facilities.

The civic body had already issued an order providing relief fund to 35 employees, who contracted the virus. Apart from this, several sanitary workers and sanitary inspectors at zonal levels have been infected and the civic body maintains utmost secrecy while releasing the details of affected civic body employees.

Meanwhile, unconfirmed sources in the civic body hint that one assistant public relation officer tested positive and another officer was found to be having symptoms. “Visitors are allowed inside the Amma Maligai without being tested. The higher officials should take necessary precautions to allay fear. Our family members are worried a lot due to this,” said an office assistant, on the condition of anonymity.