The Kerala Public Service Commission (KPSC) conducted the Assistant Engineer (Civil) and Assistant Engineer (Hydrology) examination on May 25, 2016, under the paper code 72/2016. This examination aimed to recruit qualified candidates for various departments, including the Kerala State Housing Board (KSHB), Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), Small Industries Development Corporation (SIDCO), and the Ground Water Department.

Exam Details:

• Name of Post: Assistant Engineer (Civil) / Assistant Engineer (Hydrology)
• Departments: KSHB, KSRTC, SIDCO (Special Recruitment for Scheduled Tribes only), Ground Water Department
• Paper Code: 72/2016
• Date of Examination: May 25, 2016
• Medium of Question: English
• Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Total Marks: 100
• Question Type: Objective Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Exam Structure and Syllabus:

The examination comprised 100 objective-type questions, each carrying one mark. The questions were designed to assess the candidate's proficiency in various subjects pertinent to the roles of Assistant Engineer (Civil) and Assistant Engineer (Hydrology). The key areas covered included:

1. Technical Subjects:

Civil Engineering Topics

• Building Materials and Construction
• Structural Analysis
• Design of Reinforced Concrete and Steel Structures
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Transportation Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Surveying  

Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering

• Hydrological Cycle
  
• Groundwater Hydrology
• Water Resource Planning and Management
• Irrigation Engineering

2. General Knowledge and Current Affairs:

• Important events and developments at the state, national, and international levels
• Basic facts about Kerala's socio-economic and cultural aspects

3. General English:

• Grammar and Vocabulary
• Comprehension Skills
• Sentence Structure and Usage

Preparation Tips:

For aspirants aiming to excel in similar examinations, the following preparation strategies are recommended:

1. Review Previous Question Papers:

• Practicing past question papers helps in understanding the exam pattern and the types of questions asked. 

2. Strengthen Technical Knowledge:

• Focus on core civil engineering subjects and hydrology concepts. Standard textbooks and reference materials can be beneficial.

3. Stay Updated with Current Affairs:

• Regularly read newspapers, journals, and online portals to keep abreast of current events, especially those related to Kerala.

4. Enhance English Language Skills:

• Practice grammar exercises, expand vocabulary, and improve comprehension abilities through regular reading and writing.
  

Conclusion:

The Assistant Engineer examination conducted by the Kerala Public Service Commission is a competitive assessment designed to evaluate a candidate's technical proficiency, general awareness, and language skills. Thorough preparation, including the practice of previous question papers and a solid understanding of fundamental concepts, is essential for success.