JKMEGA expresses concerns over vacant posts in Mechanical Engineering

Srinagar, Apr 3: The Mechanical Engineering sector in Jammu and Kashmir faces a severe leadership vacuum with both Chief Engineer and Superintending Engineer positions sitting empty at the Mechanical and Hospital Engineering Department (M&HED) Kashmir, according to concerns raised at a recent Guidance Council Meeting of the Jammu and Kashmir Mechanical Engineering Graduates Association (JKMEGA).

A statement said that the crisis extends across multiple departments with a total of 121 engineering positions unfilled, including 5 Superintending Engineers, 18 Executive Engineers, 48 Assistant Executive Engineers, and 50 Assistant Engineers.

“This leadership gap has critically impacted project execution and day-to-day operations,” according to the statement adding that the situation is further complicated by stalled promotions of Junior Engineers to Assistant Engineer positions despite available vacancies, causing widespread demoralization among staff.

The engineering crisis spans several key departments, including M&HED, Jal Shakti, and the Housing & Urban Development Department (H&UDD), further straining the administration’s ability to execute projects efficiently.

JKMEGA has urgently appealed to the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, and Secretary R&B to expedite appointments at all levels to restore operational efficiency and improve public service delivery. The association also called for vacant Junior Engineer positions to be referred to the Services Selection Recruitment Board to create employment opportunities and strengthen the department’s workforce.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the engineering community and ensuring the upliftment of the profession for the greater good of governance and public welfare, the statement said.