SRINAGAR, Oct 30: Minister for the Jal Shakti Department, Javed Ahmad Rana, confirmed during a Legislative Assembly session that the policy for the regularization of daily-wagers is currently under consideration. This announcement comes as a response to pressing staffing shortages within the department.
The Minister made this statement while addressing a query raised by Legislator Dr. Sajjad Shafi. He acknowledged the significant reduction in departmental personnel due to superannuation, leading to operational challenges.
Rana provided a detailed breakdown of staffing levels, highlighting that there are currently 125 Assistant Lineman positions filled, while only eight lineman posts remain vacant at the PHE Sub-Division Uri. This shortage underscores the growing demand for an effective workforce dedicated to managing water supply and infrastructure.
Despite the vacancies, the Minister assured that measures remain in place to ensure a regular water supply and the operation of Water Supply Schemes (WSS). To address the immediate needs, the department has implemented interim arrangements. These include the internal deployment of existing manpower, comprising both regular employees and daily-wagers.
Rana emphasized that these temporary solutions aim to maintain efficient water supply operations until the vacant positions can be filled through formal recruitment or redeployment based on departmental norms. The Jal Shakti Department aims to enhance its workforce to better serve the needs of the population.
“We understand the importance of having a reliable workforce, especially in water supply management,” he stated. “Our priority is to ensure that citizens receive uninterrupted access to water while we work on addressing these staffing challenges.”
This commitment to regularizing daily-wagers marks a significant step towards improving working conditions and securing the positions of employees who have contributed to the department’s functionality. Stakeholders view this as a progressive initiative, promoting job security in an essential service sector.
Citizens eagerly await further developments on this policy, hoping it will lead to better management of water supply and workforce stability in the Jal Shakti Department.
