Punjab holds a 52 percent share in the board but has struggled for nearly two decades to fill its quota.

Punjab Govt Moves to Fill 2,500 Long-Pending BBMB Posts via Special Cadre

The Punjab government has initiated a major recruitment drive to fill approximately 2,500 vacant posts in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) under the state’s quota. The government plans to create a "special cadre" of employees dedicated specifically to BBMB projects to tackle a long-standing manpower crisis. 

According to the report, the Department of Irrigation has already obtained approval from the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) to carry out the recruitment, with a notification expected shortly.

Under this new system, employees will be recruited specifically for the BBMB cadre and will not be transferred back to the Punjab state cadre. This move addresses a long-standing issue where staff previously sought frequent transfers back to state departments, leaving BBMB projects understaffed. Punjab holds a 52 percent share in the board but has struggled for nearly two decades to fill its quota.

The shortage is critical in the technical wing, where 1,486 posts remain vacant, including 568 foreman positions essential for maintaining dams and turbines. 

According to sources, while some positions may be filled by adjusting surplus staff from other departments, a significant portion will be through direct recruitment. The creation of this dedicated cadre is expected to strengthen Punjab's administrative presence and improve operational efficiency at the BBMB.

Source: The Tribune