EDITORIAL
Homage to Dr. A Ramakrishna
An Epitome of Humility and Knowledge
Karmanye Vadhikaraste, Ma phaleshou kada chana, Ma Karma Phala Hetur Bhurmatey Sangostva Akarmani
We salute and join other fraternity members in proffering our deepest and heartfelt condolences on the passing away of Dr. A Ramakrishna, the doyen of Construction Industry. We also convey our deepest sympathies with his family in this moment of grief.
Er A. Ramakrishna, former Deputy Managing Director and member on the board of L&T, passed away on 20th August, 2013, Tuseday, in Hyderabad due to a cardiac arrest. He was 74. Ramakrishna was an acknowledged expert in the construction industry known for introducing novel systems and processes and played a central role in evolving policies relating to construction sector.
Dr. Anumolu Ramakrishna obtained his Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from the Andhra University and M.Sc. in Structural Engineering from the College of Engineering, Guindy, Chennai. He started his career in 1962 with Engineering Construction Corporation Limited (ECC). He was sponsored by Government of India for practical training in Structural Engineering in the erstwhile German Democratic Republic.
Er. Ramakrishna was inducted into the board of directors in 1992 and was appointed as operational head of ECC Division. During his tenure of more than four decades, he oversaw construction of many cement and steel plants, power projects, refineries and petrochemical complexes besides buildings, roads, bridges, harbours, airports, water supply projects and nuclear power plants. Ramakrishna was elevated to the position of deputy managing director in 2000. He retired as the Deputy Managing Director and Member of the Board in 2004.
His knowledge in structural engineering specially precast and prestressed concrete and industrialized methods of construction is effectively used in many projects. He has been honoured by Andhra University who conferred upon him Honorary Degree of Doctorate of Science in 1997 and by Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University through an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in 2004.
Dr. Ramakrishna is credited with introducing in India system formwork, which has improved concrete forms and raised productivity levels at construction sites. His pioneering role in application of pre-cast, pre-stressed and tunnel form techniques has given the much needed technology dimension to Indian construction. This has helped the industry meet challenging timeframes, adherence to quality and costs and actively contribute to the country’s overall economic progress.
Dr. Ramakrishna actively associated with many prestigious National and International bodies and has been the President of Indian National Academy of Engineering - INAE, Vice-Chairman of Construction Industry Development Council - CIDC, Vice-Chairman of National Academy of Construction - NAC.
He has played an important role in founding of Industry associations such as Indian Concrete Institute, Construction Industry Development Council, National Academy of Construction and Construction Federation of India. He was associated with apex industry associations like CII and FICCI, Structural Engineering Research Centre, National Institute of Construction Management & Research (NICMAR) and Anna University, Chennai. He has also been the recipient of innumerable awards and accolades.
While we know that you are no longer physically with us, the rich technical heritage and legacy you have left behind with the fraternity shall continue to be the guiding lamp in the years to come. For him, the work was always, a prayer in action.
Ajit Sabnis
Editor-in-Chief