To the people of the southern districts of Tamil Nadu — Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Ramanathapuram and Sivaganga — British engineer John Pennycuick, who constructed the Mullaperiyar dam and for whom a memorial has been constructed in the State, is god. People should visit the region that benefits from the dam to see for themselves how he is worshipped — his picture adorns the walls of all houses.

The sacrifices made by Pennycuick and the challenges he faced for constructing the dam are part of the region’s folklore. The British engineer sold his property to complete the dam. Although the memorial for him is significant, the livelihoods of farmers who plough the lands irrigated with water from the dam built by him form the best tribute to his matchless service.

source: http://www.TheHindu.com / Home> Opinion> Letters / January 15th, 2013