A Tribute to Prof. (Dr.) Pradip Kumar Roy

When I joined Bengal Engineering College, Shibpur, in 1969, I came across so many respected teachers. Over the next five years, I came to admire a few for their profound impact – not only as educators but also as mentors and compassionate human beings. Among them, one name stands out above all: Prof. Dr. Pradip Kumar Roy.

By the time we reached the final years of our course, a unique bond had developed between us – the students and Prof. Roy. He was no longer just a teacher to us—he became “Pradip Da,” a term of endearment that reflected both our deep respect and our genuine affection for him. He never insisted on formalities; instead, he built relationships grounded in mutual trust, openness, and warmth.

Prof. Roy taught us Engineering Survey, a subject that might initially appear intimidating to many. But under his guidance, it was never felt difficult. His clarity of instruction, methodical approach, and engaging teaching style turned a complex subject into one of our favourites. His practical insights, drawn from both academic knowledge and field experience, helped demystify the technicalities. I still believe that anyone fortunate enough to learn Surveying from him never found it daunting again.

One of my most cherished memories is of our Survey Camp during the fourth year – a month-long practical training program held at Kalyaneswari Water Works of PHED, near Asansol. Prof. Roy was the Teacher in charge of the survey camp and also the heart and soul of that camp. He meticulously organized the entire operation, ensuring everything – from logistics to learning – all ran smoothly. We were divided into small groups, each assigned with a specific area to survey using classical tools like plane tables, dumpy levels, theodolites, and measuring chains. His calm supervision and ever-present encouragement turned this intense fieldwork into a rewarding and enjoyable learning experience.

I consider myself especially fortunate to have been selected by him to be a part of the advance party – a small team entrusted with setting up the camp before the rest of the students arrived. It was a defining moment in my life. Watching Prof. Roy handle a multitude of responsibilities – from transportation to camp layout, from equipment management to human interaction – with calm efficiency and foresight was a masterclass in leadership and real-world problem-solving. It was, in many ways, my initiation into the world of project management.

Beyond the classroom and fieldwork, Prof. Roy was deeply involved in college life. He was one of the key persons behind organizing the Annual Reunions of B.E. College -an annual event that used to bring together thousands of alumni of different graduating years, the faculty, and students across generations. His boundless energy, humility, and team spirit made him an irreplaceable pillar of these reunions. Whether it was motivating volunteers, handling minute details, or simply being present where needed – he led by example.

Later in his illustrious career, Prof. Roy rose to become one of the most respected names in civil engineering education, particularly in the domains of Geodesy and Engineering Survey. After completing his graduation from B.E. College in 1965, he joined the very institution as a faculty member and served with distinction. He later earned his Ph.D. in Geodetic Survey from IIT Roorkee, further enhancing his academic credentials.

His contributions have been rightly recognised. The Department of Civil Engineering at IIEST Shibpur and the Global Alumni Association of Bengal Engineering and Science University (GAABESU) have instituted the “Professor Pradip Kumar Roy Memorial Lecture” in his honour – an enduring tribute to his legacy and influence.

To all of us who knew him, Pradip Da was more than a professor – he was an institution in himself. His gentle demeanour, ever-smiling face, spontaneous humour, and unwavering commitment to teaching and student welfare left an indelible mark on generations of engineers. He taught us how to navigate the challenges of both academia and life with humility, clarity, and compassion.

Prof. Roy had another delightful side, that was his incredible sense of humour and gift for limericks. He could compose witty rhymes spontaneously, often based on real-life events, college happenings, or funny moments among friends. His limericks, always clever and good-natured, brought laughter and joy to countless informal gatherings. Some of his humorous verses about batch-mates and students are still fondly remembered and retold among alumni to this day.