Imagine a security guard suddenly being handed the responsibilities of an engineer—sounds like a plot twist from a movie, right? But this is exactly what’s happening in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department, where a recent office order has sparked widespread controversy. According to the notification dated December 16, 2025, Anwar Sadaat, who serves as an ‘Operator-cum-Chowkidar’ (security guard) in the Tank district, has been ‘authorized to work as a Sub Engineer on a stopgap basis, in addition to his current duties.’ This move, described as being ‘in the best public interest,’ has left many scratching their heads—and for good reason.
And this is the part most people miss: The Sub Engineer role is no small feat. It’s a technical position within the formal engineering cadre, typically requiring a specialized diploma or qualification. These professionals are tasked with overseeing critical infrastructure and development projects, particularly in areas like water supply and sanitation. So, when a security guard—with no apparent technical background—is appointed to such a role, even temporarily, it raises serious questions about competence, safety, and institutional integrity.
The decision, backed by recommendations from the Superintending Engineer of PHE Circle D.I. Khan and the Executive Engineer of PHE Division Tank, has been met with fierce criticism. Engineers and civil servants familiar with the PHE system view this as a blatant disregard for professional standards. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this a genuine attempt to fill a gap, or is it another example of rules being bent under pressure from ‘high-ups’? Social media has been abuzz with debates, with many citing this as a symptom of deeper issues in provincial bureaucracy.
For instance, what happens when non-technical staff are placed in roles that directly impact public safety? Critics argue that such stopgap arrangements not only undermine the credibility of the department but also risk the quality of essential services. After all, water supply and sanitation projects are no place for on-the-job learning—they require expertise and precision.
So far, neither the PHE Department nor the KP government has provided a detailed explanation beyond the office order. But the controversy has already shed an uncomfortable light on recruitment practices and temporary staffing within the province. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: In the pursuit of quick fixes, are we compromising long-term public welfare? Let’s discuss—do you think this decision is justified, or is it a step too far? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Disclaimer: The image used in this article is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict any individual involved in this case.
