Prof. Sunkari Ramakrishna Rao is a distinguished academician, environmentalist, and administrator with a remarkable career spanning teaching, research, environmental protection, and institutional leadership. Retired from the Department of Civil Engineering at Andhra University, he has dedicated his life to the protection of the environment, sustainable development, and advancing education and research. His contributions have had a profound impact on academia, environmental policy, and disaster management.

Key Contributions and Achievements

1. Environmental Advocacy and Leadership

• Founded the Peoples’ Environmental Protection Society (PEPS), a non-governmental organization dedicated to environmental conservation. Through PEPS, he has worked alongside eminent professors like Prof. T. Shivaji Rao to promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices.
• Published a fortnightly newsletter, ‘Envision’, to disseminate knowledge and raise awareness about environmental issues.

2. Academic and Research Excellence

• Served as Director of Research and Development at GITAM University after his retirement from Andhra University.
• Guided 15 Ph.D. students and 40 M.Tech students, mentoring the next generation of engineers and researchers.
• Published 140 research papers in reputed, peer-reviewed journals, contributing significantly to the fields of civil engineering, environmental science, and sustainable development.

3. Administrative Leadership

• Served as the Vice-Chancellor of Krishna University, where he played a key role in shaping the university's academic and administrative policies.
• Worked as Joint Director in the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India, contributing to national environmental policies and initiatives.

4. Environmental Policy and Appraisal

• Served as a member of the Andhra Pradesh State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC), which grants environmental clearances to projects requiring compliance with environmental regulations.
• Currently serving his second term as a member of the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) for non-coal mining projects, constituted by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, Government of India. In this role, he evaluates the environmental impact of mining projects and ensures sustainable practices.

5. Innovative Environmental Solutions

• Developed a model of Artificial Wetland System to treat drain waters discharged into Kolleru Lake, a significant ecological site in Andhra Pradesh. This model was recognized by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), which funded the development of an experimental working model.

6. Disaster Management and Resilience

• Completed three projects funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP):
  • Studied the impact of cyclones Hud Hud and Titli, documenting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) followed by the government and local communities. These findings are being used to mitigate future disasters and enhance resilience.
  • Conducted a temporal change study of water bodies in the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) area to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to water conservation.

7. Rehabilitation and Compensation Expertise

• As a member of the Expert Appraisal Committee, Prof. Rao has extensive experience in rehabilitation of project-affected communities and damage control. His work ensures fair compensation and sustainable resettlement for those displaced by development projects.

8. International Exposure and Training

• Trained in the ‘Laws of the Seas’ program organized by the International Ocean Institute, Malta.
• Visited countries like the U.S., Italy, Malaysia, Australia, and Canada for academic and research collaborations, gaining global perspectives on environmental and engineering challenges.

Awards and Honors

• Dr. Raghupati Venkatratnam Nayudu Award: Recognized as an outstanding academician for his contributions to education and research.
• Capital Foundation Award: Honored in the environment category for his exceptional service to society and environmental conservation.

Legacy and Impact

Prof. Sunkari Ramakrishna Rao’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to environmental protection, sustainable development, and academic excellence. His innovative solutions, such as the Artificial Wetland System, and his contributions to disaster management and environmental policy have had a lasting impact on society. As a mentor, researcher, and administrator, he has inspired countless students and professionals to pursue excellence and contribute to the betterment of the environment and society.

His work continues to influence environmental policies, disaster resilience strategies, and sustainable development initiatives, making him a true pioneer in his field. Prof. Rao’s dedication to the environment and education serves as an inspiration to future generations.