Noted irrigation expert T. Hanumantha Rao passed away at a private hospital here on late on Sunday night. He was 86 and survived by wife, two sons and a daughter.
Retired as irrigation engineer-in-chief of the unified Andhra Pradesh, Hanumantha Rao was an expert with the World Bank and served as consultant to the United Nations relating to projects in Africa. A proponent of four water concept, Hanumantha Rao contributed for improvement of water systems in Rajasthan, a state where water supply was augmented even in the drought affected areas. The concept focussed on rainwater, soil moisture, ground water and surface water and it encompassed techniques for optimising storage, recharge and utilisation.
A winner of the Mokshagundem Viveswarayya award, Hanumantha Rao suggested construction of a series of barrages at Polavaram rather than taking up high investment project. He played a key role in the creation of the WALAMTARI (Water and Land Management, Training and Research Institute).
Roads and Buildings Minister T. Nageswara Rao expressed shock over the demise of Hanumantha Rao claiming he was one among the few experts in the crucial field in Telangana. He recalled the services rendered by the deceased expert when he was holding the Irrigation portfolio in the State Cabinet. He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family.
Opposition leader in Telangana Assembly K. Jana Reddy has condoled the death of Hanumantha Rao claiming that he was one among the very few irrigation experts in the country and the State suffered a huge loss in his demise. The four water concept, for optimal utilisation of water resources, propounded by Hanumantha Rao was being successfully implemented in States like Rajasthan. He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family.
Opposition leader in Andhra Pradesh Assembly, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed his condolences over the death of Hanumantha Rao describing it as a loss to the country. Hanumantha Rao was an expert in irrigation related issues and served several States even after his retirement from service. He won laurels with his advise to several States as well as international organisations like the United Nations on irrigation, storage and related aspects, he said conveying his condolences to the bereaved family.
