Delhi PWD To Create Own Engineering Cadre For Faster Projects
The Delhi government plans to create its own dedicated engineering cadre within the Public Works Department (PWD). This move is designed to ensure smoother, faster implementation of critical urban projects and enhance accountability to the city’s unique needs, marking a departure from its reliance on Central Public Works Department (CPWD) deputations.
Officials confirmed that a detailed proposal for this new cadre has been finalised and will soon be presented to the Cabinet for approval. Once endorsed, the PWD will initiate a comprehensive recruitment and structural realignment process, ensuring that every position, from junior engineer to chief engineer, is staffed by officers exclusively under Delhi PWD’s direct control. This aims to build a permanent, dedicated technical workforce, trained and promoted under local rules and oversight.
PWD Minister highlighted that this is a pivotal moment for both the department and the city. He stressed that direct accountability to the people of Delhi will naturally elevate performance and commitment. Currently, engineers are often deputed from the CPWD and are subject to transfers every three years, frequently leading to project delays, cost overruns, and mismanagement due to a lack of continuity. The new proposal dictates that transfers will occur only within the Capital.
By establishing its own cadre, Delhi PWD seeks to overcome these systemic bottlenecks, ensuring seamless project execution. This reform will align Delhi PWD with other modern city infrastructure bodies like the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and Delhi Development Authority, which already operate with their independent engineering services. Officials added that existing CPWD-deputed officers would be offered the option to join the new cadre or return to their parent department.
This reform is poised to provide Delhi PWD with crucial administrative independence. It promises enhanced project continuity and localised training, ultimately leading to more efficient infrastructure development and a stronger, more sustainable urban future for the Capital.
