Concerns raised over several engineers overstaying in particular posts in Odisha govt

During the tenure of the BJD government, not only the IAS and the OAS officials but also several engineers have been overstaying in particular posts in particular offices. As per reports, some senior engineers are occupying particular positions in the Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO). While most of the engineers have been reinstated after their retirement, some others have been occupying more than one position. 

Following retirement, Bharat Bhusan Panda has been working in two posts-SDO in Palasuni Sub-Division and as an Estimator for the last two years. Apart from Panda, Rama Chandra Sahu, Lalit Mohanty and Jugal Mohanty have been working as SDOs of Ghatikia, Old Town and Pokhariput Sub-Divisions respectively. Basant Kumar Behera, who has been given the responsibilities of Palasuni and Nayapalli Sub-Divisions, is also working as a General Manager. Moreover, after his retirement from the Public Health Department as Superintendent Engineer, Pradipta Kumar Swain has been reinstated as the CEO of WATCO.

Reflecting on the situation, Swain said, “As there is no posting, the experienced retired employees have been managing the job on contractual engagement. The base-level posts are vacant. As a result, the promoted officials are still working in the base-level posts with salary increments. Some section officers are in charge of two to three sections as there have been no new appointments.”

It has been alleged that though some engineers in WATCO have got promotions, they have not yet been posted in their new posts. Meanwhile, the unemployed engineers have alleged that some higher officials are reinstating the retired officials by forming a coterie and as a result, young engineers are not getting employment opportunities.

“Senior engineers are getting reinstated in particular posts even after their retirement. They have a notion that they only know the work and others are not as efficient as them,” rued Anshuman, an unemployed degree engineer.

Some retired engineers have also alleged that on the pretext of experience, retired employees are being reinstated and as a result, young engineers are not getting opportunities any more.

“Old people should take retirement. Young and energetic people should take over the responsibilities. Then only the works will be executed properly. Those who are doing good work should be promoted to build up a competitive attitude among employees,” mused retired engineer Lalit Patnaik.

In response, Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said, “We are aware of the allegations and will look into the matter. Nobody will be kept in their posts on compassionate ground. Necessary action will be taken following proper inquiry,” said Mohapatra.

As per reports, as many as 69 posts out of a total 229 posts under WATCO are lying vacant.