The Public Works Department: The construction of the Sree Padam palace, during the former reign, on a plan drawn by a European Engineer, had impressed Swathi Thirunal with a favorable opinion of European engineering skill. The construction of the Observatory simply confirmed this impression.

The Maramut Department for the repair and construction of palaces, temples etc was also reorganized and an experienced Superintendent appointed. A few companies of pioneers were formed for irrigation works at Nanjenaud, under the general supervision of the Visiting Engineer Lieutenant Horsely, who began to devote his unremitting attention to the improvement of all the maramuth works in Travancore. This very able Engineer’s literacy work “Memoirs of Travancore”, written at the request of the Resident, Colonel Fraser, shows his knowledge of the country, and how he exerted himself to be closely acquainted with everything connected with Travancore.

Swathi Thirunal

RamaVarma Uthram Thirunal

Marthanda Varma British Resident William Cullen

When Horsley took up employment as Engineer in the Tinnevelly and Madura districts, he was requested to inspect and direct the Maramath Works in this State. This arrangement continued for some years (from 1836 to 1854). A small establishment, consisting of a surveyor and a draftsman, which had been attached to the Residency at Trivandrum to work under the orders of General Cullen, was absorbed in the P.W. Department which was newly created. Swathi Thirunal initiated the construction of a stone bridge over the Karamana river, laying the foundation stone himself . It was one of the first works of European engineering skill and was completed at a cost of about Rs 1 lakh. Part of the structure of the bridge built in 1840s is supporting the bridge even today. Swathi Thirunal didn’t live to see its completion, and it was left to his brothe