Is Delhi PWD Creating Its Own Engineering Cadre for Improved Efficiency?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Creation of a dedicated engineering cadre for Delhi PWD.
- End of reliance on borrowed officers from CPWD.
- Improved accountability for engineers serving the city.
- Faster project delivery due to reduced bureaucratic delays.
- Autonomy for PWD in managing its workforce.
New Delhi, July 11 (NationPress) In a significant move aimed at enhancing the management of infrastructure in Delhi, the Public Works Department (PWD) is poised to establish its own engineering cadre, as announced by an official on Friday.
The formulation of this cadre has been finalized and is expected to be presented to the Delhi Cabinet in the forthcoming days.
“This represents the most substantial administrative reform in the department’s history, putting an end to years of reliance on borrowed personnel from the CPWD (Central Public Works Department),” remarked an official.
Previously, the PWD depended on engineers, executive engineers (EEs), superintending engineers (SEs), and junior engineers (JEs) who were seconded from CPWD or other central organizations.
“With the establishment of an independent PWD cadre, Delhi will at last have its own permanent, dedicated technical workforce — trained, appointed, and promoted under its own rules and supervision,” according to an official statement.
“This is a pivotal moment not just for Delhi PWD, but for the city as a whole. When engineers are accountable solely to the residents of Delhi, their performance and dedication naturally improve. We are constructing a stronger, cleaner, and faster Delhi — and we require our own team to accomplish this,” stated Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma, the PWD Minister of Delhi.
Upon approval from the Cabinet, PWD will commence the recruitment and structural realignment process, ensuring that every level, from Junior Engineer to Chief Engineer, is staffed exclusively by officers under the aegis of Delhi PWD.
Notably, all current CPWD-deputed officers serving in Delhi PWD will have the option to either return to their parent cadre or permanently join the new Delhi PWD engineering cadre, contingent upon conditions established by the department and administrative regulations.
This reform is anticipated to boost departmental efficiency, enhance accountability, and ensure continuity in leadership and project execution — which is often interrupted by transfers and deputations from CPWD.
The reform could lead to quicker project completions and grant PWD administrative autonomy without delays or interruptions due to CPWD deputation issues.