In Memory of Late Eng. D L O Mendis

By PUBLICITY DIVISION (IESL)

Eng. D. L. O. Mendis was a distinguished Sri Lankan engineer and a Past President of the IESL, serving in the year 1987. He made an outstanding contribution to the engineering profession and to the development of our country.

His engineering career covered practical project work, national planning, research, and public advocacy. In the early years of his career, he worked on major irrigation and water resource projects such as the Kantalai and Allai irrigation schemes in the 1950s, and later the Walawe scheme in the 1960s. These projects played a vital role in developing agriculture and improving the livelihoods of people in the dry-zone areas of Sri Lanka.

During the 1970s, Eng. Mendis contributed to national-level planning related to water resources, land use, and integrated development—areas that were very important for Sri Lanka’s progress after independence. He was also a respected thinker and researcher on water management. He strongly believed in protecting Sri Lanka’s ancient irrigation systems and highlighted their environmental and social value. He reminded us that traditional water systems were sustainable and community-friendly, and that modern development should respect these principles.

Eng. Mendis was actively involved in seminars and public discussions. He was the chief spokesperson for the revival of the long-delayed “A River for Jaffna” project, which aimed to improve freshwater availability in the Jaffna Peninsula. He also wrote and contributed to many technical publications on water, soil conservation, cultural heritage, and environmental impacts of engineering.

As President of the IESL in 1987, Eng. D. L. O. Mendis provided strong leadership during an important period. During his tenure, the Vadakkin Provincial Chapter of the IESL was established in Jaffna. Today, this chapter is one of the most active provincial centres of the IESL and continues to contribute greatly to the professional development of engineers serving in the Northern region.

At that time, many local contractors and consultants faced serious difficulties with government authorities. Under the leadership of Eng. Mendis, the IESL took these issues forward, met with the Finance Minister, and successfully obtained Cabinet approval to resolve these disputes.

Among the engineering community, his inaugural address as IESL President, titled “Walking on Two Legs,” is still well remembered. This important message was later adopted by the IESL as a publication, reflecting his vision of balanced and responsible engineering. Eng. D. L. O. Mendis is remembered not only for his technical expertise, but also for his belief that engineering should serve society, protect the environment, and respect our cultural heritage.