Pvt disinfectant firms see a windfall post lockdown

These private firms have already sought government nod to operate during the remaining days of the lockdown. They believe they could be the most sought-after professionals in the coming days since all buildings need sanitisation. As of now, the civic body is handling the disinfection process in all areas.

Firms whom DT Next spoke to said they are working on various methods of sanitisation to be used once their services are sought. But virologists voice concern over the methods they adopt and opine that disinfection should be done more efficiently than simply spraying chemicals on the road.

Annamalai Kannan of Clean and Clear Disinfectant Service said, “We are providing various methods of sanitisation, from using chemicals to 100 per cent environmental-friendly methods. For example, we are working on disinfecting the place through steam water. Further, we are following the WHO procedures for disinfection.”

Stating that the firm has enough protective gears for workers, he said: “Though we have received calls for sanitisation, we’re awaiting the government nod,” Kannan added.

Santhosh Kumar, who runs a professional disinfection service in the city said, “The Health officials have asked us not to provide our services. We have applied for permission and travel passes. The officials are yet to visit our place to check our facilities.”

Santhosh Kumar said his firm charges Rs 1.5 per square feet for spraying the disinfectant.

A city-based virologist said, “Many private firms and even the government disinfectant workers are not following the procedures. It should be sprayed on places where people frequently touch, not on the road which is a complete waste. They should get proper guidance while working on disinfectants.”