Kulgam, April 24, KNT: Irrigation works in Kulgam have come to a near standstill with nine Junior Engineer (JE) posts lying vacant and no JE currently posted in the sub-division, officials said.
The shortage has impacted planning and execution, with multiple works pending and Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) yet to be submitted. The situation has affected irrigation services in several areas, with residents facing delays linked to incomplete projects.
Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) Irrigation Kulgam, Zameer Ahmad, told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the sub-division is struggling to function due to the absence of technical staff.
“Eighty percent of the network in this sub-division is affected. I have no JEs in my sub-division. I request the government to provide JEs. Work has started but cannot move properly without technical staff,” he said.
He indicated that the lack of JEs has slowed both field execution and documentation processes, including DPR preparation required for approvals and funding.
The issue highlights a gap in manpower at the field level, directly impacting infrastructure delivery and maintenance of irrigation channels in the district.
Villagers in affected areas have reported inconvenience due to delays in ongoing and planned works, particularly during a period when irrigation demand remains critical for agricultural activity. [KNT]
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