A Tribute to a Visionary Engineer and a Selfless Public Servant
Sadaket A Malik
The period of early awakening has seen rapid strides in the improvised Doda where education was rare and people engulfed under the claws of poverty and ignorance. One such area was Bhalessa where the means of communication and transportation were lacking and there was less access to literacy measly a lone primary school that too with less enrolment. In such an era top legends were born who represented Jammu and Kashmir and took highest positions in different fields of life.
Tucked away from the husstle busstle, these legends made an indelible mark in various domains. Be it the literature, politics or bureaucracy.
One such legend was Abdul Sattar Rather who left an everlasting mark through his dedication, integrity, and selfless service, a civil engineer and a true humanitarian who dedicated his life to the development and welfare of the people across Jammu and Kashmir. His contributions, particularly in the fields of public health engineering, irrigation, flood control, and road infrastructure, have left an indelible impact.
He was born on March 21, 1940, into a family rooted in literature. His father, Ghulam Qadir Gafil, was a renowned Kashmiri poet, whose literary excellence influenced his upbringing. Growing up in an environment rich in intellectual and cultural pursuits, he developed a strong sense of discipline, perseverance, and a passion for learning.
From an early age, he exhibited ability to overcome obstacles. In an era when electricity was a luxury in many areas, young Abdul Sattar Rather studied under the dim glow of burning wood, demonstrating an unyielding commitment to education. His teachers recognized his brilliance and often referred to him as “the shining star of our school.” This early struggle and determination laid the foundation for his exceptional career in engineering.
He started his career as an engineer in 1965, joining the Public Works Department (PWD) as an Assistant Engineer (AE) in Budgam during his probationary period. Over the years, he played a pivotal role in various engineering projects, ensuring the implementation of water supply, irrigation, and flood control schemes across different regions of Jammu and Kashmir.
His career progression is evidence to his technical expertise, leadership qualities, and to public service:
He worked for nine years (1966-1975) with the PDC at Chenani, contributing to major infrastructure projects. Worked as AE, Irrigation Division, Nowshera – Focused on developing irrigation systems to support agriculture. In 1977 he was Promoted to Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE), Akhnoor, managing water management projects.
From 1979-1984 he Served as Executive Engineer (XEN), Flood Control Division, Rajouri-Poonch, Kargil PWD (R&B) Division, overseeing road and building projects in the challenging terrain of Ladakh.
1984-1987 he worked as XEN in Rajouri Irrigation Division then Jammu Irrigation Division, ensuring efficient water resource management followed by Doda and Kishtwar PHE Division, further strengthening water supply schemes.
Briefly served as XEN in Jammu Irrigation PHE Division Rajouri, ensuring sustainable water solutions for local communities.
In 1996 he was Promoted to Superintending Engineer (SE) for Jammu and Kathua Districts, marking a milestone in his career. He retired on March 31, 1998, after more than three decades of dedicated service.
Throughout his tenure, he spearheaded numerous projects that transformed the lives of thousands, particularly in remote and underdeveloped areas. His key contributions include, Water Supply Schemes (WSS) in Bhalessa, Doda, Rajouri, and Kishtwar – He played an important role in bringing potable water to some of the most inaccessible regions.
He initiated Flood Control Measures in Rajouri and Poonch, Implemented flood prevention mechanisms, safeguarding people from seasonal devastation.
He was key official in irrigation Development in Jammu, Rajouri, and Nowshera thereby Improved agricultural irrigation, enhancing productivity and farmers’ livelihoods.
Unlike many engineers who confined themselves to offices, Abdul Sattar Rather was known for his hands-on approach. He personally visited project sites, engaged with people, and ensured transparency and efficiency in his work.
Beyond his technical contributions, Rather sb was a man of deep integrity, compassion, and humility. His leadership extended beyond engineering as he actively participated in social welfare and environmental conservation movements.
He was among the founding members of the Nature-Human Centric People’s Movement (NHCPM), advocating for social justice, peace, and ecological preservation. His work emphasized sustainable development, ensuring that engineering projects did not harm the environment. He worked closely with former parliamentarian Ram Piyare Saraf
He was also a mentor and role model to countless young engineers. He instilled in them the values of hard work, ethical conduct, and public service, shaping the next generation of professionals.
Despite his professional achievements, Abdul Sattar Rather remained a humble and kind-hearted individual. He was known for his simplicity, warm personality, and willingness to help others. His doors were always open to those in need, and he was deeply respected by his colleagues, subordinates, and the public alike.
He is survived by his family, including his three sons – Muzaffar Rather, Jaffer Rather, and Yasir Hussain Rather, and two daughters – Hasan Ara and Dr. Nilofer. His family carries forward his legacy of honesty, hard work, and service to the people.
The passing of Abdul Sattar Rather is an irreparable loss, not just for his family but for the entire Jammu and Kashmir. His contributions in engineering, public service, and social welfare have left an enduring impact. His work in his hometown Bhalessa is always remembered owing to his contributions in providing basic services to the people.
Though he is no longer with us, his legacy of dedication, integrity, and selflessness lives on. His life serves as a shining example for engineers, social workers, and future leaders, demonstrating that true success is measured not by wealth or power, but by the positive impact one leaves on society.
We pray that Allah grants him the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous and gives his family strength and patience.
May his light continue to guide us all. Ameen.