Change is here, and it’s already showing. The workforce at Writers’ Buildings, infamous for paying greater attention to familial discussions than to the movement of files, has started discussing work beyond office hours.

A glimmer of hope, a sliver of doubt over the “new management” — these were only too apparent in the conversations of Writers’ employees on buses and while walking on pavements, both on the way to office and while returning home.

The four-minute walk from BBD Bag station to Writers’ was buzzing on Thursday morning with talk of possible ministers, tougher working hours, hopes of getting dues and the prospect of sighting the new boss after she arrives on Friday.

The possibility of air-conditioners being installed in all offices or cleaner washrooms played on many lips while stepping off buses.

“We are yet to receive 16 per cent DA. Maybe Didi will say something after arriving,” said Mahadev Haldar, who works in a ground-floor office.

Speculation on possible ministers — even while hurrying through busy crossings to avoid being marked absent — was a common theme. “Javed Khan, Bobby Hakim and Nur-e-Alam Chowdhury are possible contenders for minority affairs,” said an employee.

“Is Partha Chatterjee really taking charge of information and cultural affairs?” pondered his colleague in the department headed by Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee.

The fear of “undesirable” change also loomed large. “Mamata has always said she would ensure quicker progress of projects. Maybe our laid-back attitude at the workplace has to change now. We may also have to stay back in office for longer hours,” said a middle-aged man, sipping a cup of tea in front of the stalls on the ground floor.

Many even hoped for cleaner and better washrooms. “The women’s toilet is so dirty. Even the pay-and-use public toilets are cleaner. We need a few more women’s toilets,” a woman was heard complaining to her male colleague.

The man replied, “Who knows, she may herself go to the women’s toilet on the ground floor. Write to her about the problems you face. I think things will change now.”