SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Mechanical Engineering Graduates Association (JKMEGA) has voiced concern over the non-filling of vacant engineering posts, warning that administrative stagnation is crippling key departments. At a Guidance Council Meeting held today, members highlighted the urgent need to address the crisis, particularly within the mechanical engineering cadre.
JKMEGA President emphasised that the Mechanical and Hospital Engineering Department (M&HED) Kashmir has been operating without a Chief Engineer and a Superintending Engineer for months, severely impacting project execution and daily operations. “The leadership vacuum has stalled critical projects and disrupted essential services,” he stated.
The association further pointed out that multiple departments, including M&HED, Jal Shakti, and Housing & Urban Development Department (H&UDD), are struggling due to a large number of unfilled positions viz. five Superintending Engineers (SE), 18 Executive Engineers (XENs), 48 Assistant Executive Engineers (AEEs) and 50 Assistant Engineers (AEs).
Additionally, JKMEGA expressed frustration over the stalled promotion of Junior Engineers (JEs) to Assistant Engineers (AEs), despite existing vacancies and eligibility. “Many JEs have been stuck in the same position for years with no career progression, leading to demoralisation within the department,” the association noted.
The organisation has also urged the administration to refer vacant JE posts to the Services Selection Recruitment Board (SSRB) to facilitate employment opportunities and strengthen the mechanical engineering workforce.
In an appeal to the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, and Secretary of Roads & Buildings (R&B), JKMEGA called for an immediate resolution to the crisis. “Expediting appointments and promotions will not only restore efficiency in project execution but also improve public service delivery,” the association stressed.
