Kanagaratnam Sriskandan, Sri Lankan-English engineer and civil servant (b. 1930)

Kanagaratnam Sriskandan, born on August 12, 1930, in Sri Lanka, embarked on a distinguished career that saw him become a highly respected British engineer and civil servant. His journey, spanning from his foundational education in Ceylon to a pivotal leadership role within the British Department for Transport, left an indelible mark on infrastructure development. Sriskandan's life, dedicated to the intricate world of engineering, concluded on April 21, 2010.

Early Life and Education in Ceylon

Sriskandan’s formative years were spent in Ceylon, where he attended a series of notable educational institutions. He began his primary education at Jaffna Central College, a historic institution renowned for its strong academic traditions and significant contributions to education in the northern part of the island. Following this, he had a brief period at S. Thomas' College, Mount Lavinia, another esteemed school with a rich heritage and a reputation for fostering holistic development.

He completed his secondary education at the prestigious Royal College Colombo, which has long been a crucible for the nation's future leaders and professionals, known for its rigorous academic curriculum and vibrant extracurricular life. Under the guidance of his father, Dr. Kanagaratnam, Sriskandan pursued higher education in civil engineering. He initially enrolled at the Ceylon Technical College, a key institution at the time, dedicated to fostering technical expertise in the country. This period coincided with a significant development in Ceylon's academic landscape: the engineering faculty of the Technical College was subsequently transferred to the newly established University of Ceylon, marking a crucial step in the institutionalization of higher engineering education within the nascent nation.

Pioneering Career and Migration to Britain

Sriskandan commenced his professional life as an Assistant Engineer with the Public Works Department in Ceylon, an organization central to the country's infrastructure development and maintenance in the post-independence era. His early work involved practical application of his engineering knowledge to various projects across the island. However, driven by an ambition to specialize further and seek advanced opportunities, Sriskandan made the pivotal decision in 1956 to migrate to Britain. His goal was to immerse himself in the intricate and specialized field of bridge engineering, a move that would ultimately define much of his subsequent illustrious career and significantly contribute to British infrastructure.

Distinguished Service in the United Kingdom

Upon arriving in Britain, Sriskandan’s expertise and dedication quickly saw him rise through the ranks. He achieved the esteemed position of Chief Highway Engineer at the British Department for Transport, holding an Under Secretary Grade – a testament to his profound technical acumen, leadership skills, and administrative capabilities. In this highly influential role, he was instrumental in shaping the UK's national highway strategy, overseeing vast networks of roads, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of the country's critical transport infrastructure. His decisions and insights impacted millions of commuters and the national economy.

Beyond national highways, Sriskandan’s influence extended to projects of international significance. He was a crucial member of the expert team tasked with rigorously assessing proposals for the ambitious Channel Tunnel, a monumental Anglo-French undertaking designed to physically connect Britain with mainland Europe. His meticulous evaluations were vital in ensuring the technical feasibility, structural integrity, and long-term safety of this historic engineering marvel, which presented unprecedented challenges in design and construction.

His commitment to engineering excellence and professional standards was further demonstrated through his active participation in key professional and regulatory bodies. He served as a distinguished member of the Anglo-French Safety Authority, an organization crucial for establishing and maintaining the stringent safety protocols required for complex, cross-border infrastructure like the Channel Tunnel. Furthermore, he contributed significantly as a Council member of the British Standards Institute (BSI), where he helped to set benchmarks for quality, reliability, and best practices across various industries. His dedication to advancing the profession was also evident through his service on the Council of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), a prestigious body that plays a crucial role in influencing professional standards, education, and the continuous development of civil engineering within the UK and globally.

Post-Retirement Contributions

Upon his formal retirement from public service in 1988, Kanagaratnam Sriskandan did not cease his contributions to the engineering world. Instead, he transitioned into the private sector, leveraging his vast experience and leadership skills. For five years, he served as a director for the internationally renowned Mott Macdonald Group, a global engineering, management, and development consultancy. In this role, he continued to apply his profound insights to complex projects on a global scale, providing strategic guidance and ensuring the delivery of high-quality engineering solutions for diverse clients worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Kanagaratnam Sriskandan?

Kanagaratnam Sriskandan was a Sri Lankan-born British engineer and civil servant, most notably serving as the Chief Highway Engineer, of Under Secretary Grade, at the British Department for Transport. He was a highly influential figure in UK infrastructure development.

What was his educational background?

He received his primary education at Jaffna Central College, attended S. Thomas' College, Mount Lavinia briefly, and completed his secondary education at Royal College Colombo. He studied civil engineering at the Ceylon Technical College, with his studies later transferring to the newly established University of Ceylon.

When did he move to Britain?

He left Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) in 1956 and migrated to Britain to specialize in bridge engineering.

What was his role in the Channel Tunnel project?

He was a key member of the team responsible for assessing the engineering proposals for the Channel Tunnel, ensuring its feasibility, safety, and adherence to high standards for this monumental international project.

What did he do after retiring from public service?

After retiring from public service in 1988, he joined the private sector, serving as a director of the internationally recognized Mott Macdonald Group, a global engineering consultancy, for five years.

Why is he considered a significant figure?

Sriskandan is considered a significant figure due to his high-ranking position as Chief Highway Engineer in the UK, his critical involvement in major projects like the Channel Tunnel, and his contributions to setting engineering standards through his roles on the British Standards Institute and the Institution of Civil Engineers.