"Building Blocks of Experience: My Journey Through the World of Engineering Internships" - 1

 "Building Blocks of Experience: My Journey Through the World of Engineering Internships"

As I mentioned before, I had the opportunity to attend a 6-month internship with the Public Health and Municipal Engineering Department.

Today, I’d like to share my complete internship journey with you. I’ve previously talked about our first site visit to the overhead tank at Wadapelly, which marked the beginning of this incredible learning experience. The overhead tank at Wadapelly was being constructed within a school compound. By the time we arrived at the site, the construction was nearly complete. The site engineer gave us a brief but insightful description of the project, explaining its purpose and the construction details.

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These pictures were captured during our site visit. In one of the images, you can see a small concrete mixer, which is a portable machine used for mixing concrete on-site. Additionally, three workers are engaged in quality control testing of aggregates using the sieve analysis test. To ensure the structure's quality and strength, all ingredients used in the concrete must adhere to code guidelines. The mixing and curing processes are crucial, as they play a significant role in achieving the desired strength for the construction. In the pictures, the workers are using sieves to separate the aggregates based on size, a common procedure to ensure that the aggregates meet the required specifications for the project. 

Although we weren’t present during the early stages of the construction, we asked the site engineer to explain the process and how the work progressed. The site engineer walked us through the key phases of construction, from excavation to the current stage. In the pictures, you can see the circular structure where excavation was completed, followed by bricklaying and steel reinforcement. The early-stage construction included the foundation pit, the staircase construction, and the reinforcement of the structure to ensure stability and strength. 

In the first image, you can see the foundation work, with the reinforcement steel already in place, setting the groundwork for the structure's stability. The progress made on the superstructure, where the columns and beams are partially completed, giving shape to the overall structure. Advanced stage of construction, with the roof structure and walls almost finished, indicating that the project is nearing completion.

                                                         

The image shows the initial stage of the dome's construction, where the steel frame is being assembled to form the structure’s foundation. Then you can see the concrete walls of the dome being poured, ensuring the strength and stability of the dome, workers installing reinforcement bars, which are crucial for providing additional support and ensuring the dome’s durability. The dome nearing completion, with the structure fully taking shape and the construction process wrapping up.

All of this covers the overhead tank construction works. After that, the government began working on Mission Bhagiratha and the AMRUT project, for which the tenders were awarded to private companies. Our team was assigned to a site engineer who guided us through these construction works.

At the time, the main focus was on the pipe laying process. We observed the mechanical aspects of the pipe installations, and I will share the pictures I have from the site, showcasing the different stages of this work.

Duck Foot Bend: This fitting is commonly used in plumbing or drainage systems to create a 90-degree turn. Its unique shape helps direct the flow of water effectively while minimizing turbulence. Flanged Type Reducer: This pipe fitting gradually decreases the diameter of a pipe section. The flanges on both ends allow for easy connection to other pipes or equipment, making it versatile for various applications.Double Socket Tee (T Joint): This fitting is designed to connect three pipes at a 90-degree angle. It features two sockets on one end and one socket on the other, facilitating straightforward connections to other pipes.

We also observed multiple MJ Joints, which are mechanical joint couplings used to connect pipes together. These fittings are typically made of cast iron and feature rubber gaskets that provide a watertight seal. The "MJ" stands for mechanical joint, emphasizing their purpose in ensuring secure connections.

Additionally, we encountered two types of Dismantle Joints, designed for easy connection and disconnection of pipes. On the left, you can see a dismantle joint that utilizes flanges and bolts, while the right side displays a version that employs rubber gaskets and clamps. These joints are often used in temporary or easily accessible pipelines, facilitating maintenance or repair work.

Finally, we noted the Socket Reducer, a pipe fitting that gradually reduces the diameter of a pipe section. It has a socket on one end for connecting to a larger pipe and a smaller diameter on the other, allowing for easy connection to pipes of different sizes.

Pipe Bend: This fitting is used to change the direction of a pipe. Depending on the requirements of the installation, it can be a 45-degree or 90-degree bend, allowing for flexibility in routing the piping system.Outlet of a Water Tank: The outlet pipe is vertical and features a flange at the bottom for connecting to other pipes. To clearly indicate its function, the word "OUTLET" is painted on the pipe, along with an arrow pointing downwards, ensuring easy identification.Multiple Socket Type Reducers: These fittings are used to gradually decrease the diameter of a pipe section. They have a socket on one end and a smaller diameter on the other, facilitating easy connections to pipes of different sizes.

Bellmouth: This fitting features a flared end that gradually increases in diameter. It is commonly used at the inlet or outlet of a pipe or channel to enhance flow efficiency and reduce turbulence, making it ideal for various fluid transport applications. All-Socket T Joint: This pipe fitting is designed to connect three pipes at a 90-degree angle. Unlike a double socket T joint, all three ends of the all-socket T joint have sockets, allowing for straightforward connections to other pipes. Flange Socket: This fitting is utilized to connect two pipes together. One end of the flange socket has a flange with bolt holes, while the other end features a socket for inserting the end of another pipe. Flange sockets are often employed in industrial and commercial applications where a strong and reliable connection is essential.

Blue MDPE Pipes: MDPE stands for Medium-Density Polyethylene. These pipes are widely used for water supply, irrigation, and various other applications due to their flexibility, durability, and resistance to chemicals, making them a preferred choice for many projects. Sluice Valve: This type of valve is designed to control the flow of liquid or gas in a pipe. It features a rectangular gate that moves up and down to regulate the flow. Sluice valves are commonly found in industrial and municipal water supply systems, where precise flow control is essential. Flat Bend: This pipe fitting is utilized to change the direction of a pipe within a single plane. It has a flat face on one side and a curved face on the other, allowing for a gradual change in direction. Flat bends are often employed in piping systems to avoid sharp turns, which can lead to turbulence and erosion over time.
 

Air Valves: These valves are crucial for releasing air that accumulates in the lines, which can lead to issues like water hammer and reduced flow. Air valves are typically installed at high points in the system to allow trapped air to escape, ensuring efficient operation. Water Tower with Ductile Iron Pipe: We noted a water tower with a large, vertical pipe connected to its base. This pipe is likely made of ductile iron, as indicated by its characteristics. It features flanges on both ends, which facilitate connections to other pipes or equipment. This pipe is an integral part of the local water distribution system, supplying water to nearby buildings and homes. Black High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Pipes: We also saw black HDPE pipes with a diameter of 12mm. HDPE pipes are commonly used in various applications due to their strength, durability, and resistance to chemicals. They are frequently utilized for water supply, gas distribution, and irrigation systems, making them versatile components in modern infrastructure.

To be continued....

Pooja MAttapalli

"Beyond the Mask: Lessons on Cruelty, Love, and the True Value of Life."

 "Beyond the Mask: Lessons on Cruelty, Love, and the True Value of Life."

Sometimes, we don't realize how cruel the world can be. It’s not always strangers who hurt you—often, it’s the people closest to you who play with your life. People make mistakes, but they often realize them too late. By the time they do, their lives have already changed. I may have made some wrong decisions myself, and I’m living with the consequences. These decisions may cause suffering, but over time, enduring that suffering can feel like a punishment.

But remember the days when you failed, the times when people made you feel small, or when they treated you poorly. One day, all of it will be repaid. That day will come for you too—a day when you can give back all the pain they caused. However, for that day to arrive, you must fight. Fight for your life with the hope that your time will come.

I have no respect for people who wear masks—who act like someone they’re not. You can pretend for a while, but you can’t hide behind that mask forever. One day, you will have to face the truth.

When you do something for a loved one, never say, "I did this for you" or "I spent this much on you." If you truly care about someone, you won’t keep score. If you do, it means you’re not acting out of love but out of expectation. Let me share a short story to explain this better:

There was a bird who got married and moved into her in-laws' house. She loved her new family deeply. But as time passed, they started saying hurtful things like, "We spent this much on your food," or "We spent this much for your stay." The bird began to feel isolated. She thought, "I believed this was my family. Why are they counting the costs? Am I not part of this family? The money is spent on them too, but that doesn’t seem to matter."

She realized that the people she thought were her own were treating her differently. The sad truth is that people in this world can be cruel. But no matter what, you have to live among them. You have to survive. Don’t let it bring you down—these are just your bad days. Your good days are coming. Hold on to that hope.

In today’s world, money has become the driving force, often at the expense of emotions. People put value on a piece of paper, forgetting about the value of human connection. Yes, money can feed you, cover your medical bills, and provide entertainment, but it cannot love you. It cannot give you the warmth of human emotions.

When you’re young and surrounded by money, it may feel like it’s all that matters. But one day, life will catch up to you, and you might find yourself wishing for a shoulder to cry on instead of more money. When that day comes, and if you find yourself completely alone, ask yourself—what was the true purpose of it all?

Pooja Mattapalli

"A Journey Through Time: Childhood Dreams, Family Bonds, and the Emotional Weight of Growing Up."

 "A Journey Through Time: Childhood Dreams, Family Bonds, and the Emotional Weight of Growing Up."

Today, I watched a Tamil movie called Satyam Sundaram with my partner, and it deeply resonated with me on a personal level. There were three key moments in the film that took me back to my childhood, and I’d like to share one of them with you.

In the movie, there’s a man who returns to his village after 22 years for his sister's wedding. His family had been forced to leave their home, as it had been taken over by someone else. The man's deepest desire is to buy a house, and that theme really struck a chord with me because it reminded me of my own family's journey.

In my childhood, our biggest dream was also to own a house. My father had to leave his studies because he couldn’t manage English, having studied in Telugu medium until his intermediate level. My grandfather had sent him to Bangalore for university, but he struggled, failed, and returned home. Afterward, my father got married to my mother, who was just 18 at the time and had dropped out of school due to health issues. After the wedding, with no support or resources, they were sent away from home.

They moved to the city with nothing but hopes. Two years into their marriage, my brother was born, and two years later, I came along. At that point, my father still didn’t have a stable job. He eventually started a business, but the journey was never easy. Before I could fully grasp our situation, we had moved from place to place—first living on the terrace of a four-story building in a single room, which was especially harsh during the rainy season. Then we moved to a two-room house, and after that, to several other places.

In 2020, we faced a significant setback. My father’s business took a major hit, and we lost the only property we owned—a plot that my brother and I had dreamed of turning into our own house. Both of us studied civil engineering with that dream in mind, but unfortunately, we lost the plot. With whatever little we had left, we bought an apartment.

Finally, in November 2021, we moved into our new apartment. The feeling of having our own home was indescribable. I poured my heart into decorating every corner of that house, cherishing every wall and space. It was a dream come true.

In 2024, after I got married, I had to leave that house when moving to the UK. The night before I left, I walked through every room, touching the walls, feeling the weight of the memories. I couldn’t sleep that night—my heart felt so heavy leaving the home that had meant everything to us.

The feeling of owning a house is a dream for many. Some are fortunate enough to achieve it, while others face incredible struggles and may not succeed, but that doesn't mean they’ve failed. This theme from Satyam Sundaram really touched me on a deep level.

The second moment in the movie that brought back memories was when the main character attends his sister’s wedding and gifts her jewelry. On stage, she opens it and lovingly asks him to help her put it on. This scene reminded me of my brother.

When I first came to the UK, my brother bought me a pair of Nike shoes. I didn’t know how to tie them properly. Every time I visited his home, he’d check my shoes, notice they weren’t tied right, and say, "Pooja, this isn’t how you tie them." He’d kneel down and patiently show me again how to do it. That simple act brought tears to my eyes because it showed how much he cared for me, just like in the movie.

The third thing that struck me was about owning a cycle. For many of us, having our own cycle as kids was a dream. Despite the ups and downs in my life, my parents always tried to fulfill my wishes, no matter how small. I remember riding my first cycle in the 4th standard. My father added two extra tires until I learned to balance it properly. My brother helped teach me, and though I fell many times, I was determined. Finally, the day came when I could ride my cycle to school by myself.

However, when I did, my friends' parents weren’t happy. They came to my mother, complaining, “You’ve given her a cycle at such a young age, and now all our kids want one too.” I was scared I might lose my cycle, but my mother stood by me. She supported me, and that encouragement gave me so much confidence as a child.

Growing up, my father often had to travel for business, so it was up to me to get to school on my own. My mother supported me and gave me a cycle, which became my lifeline for independence. Later, when I was in the 8th standard, I remember getting a Lady Bird cycle. I’d ride it to school with my friends, and thinking back to those memories while watching the movie brought a beautiful smile to my face.

But now, as an adult, I sometimes struggle with the reality of growing up. There's a part of me that hates it—I miss the simplicity and innocence of childhood. But, like it or not, I have to accept the truth that life moves on, no matter how much we wish to hold onto those carefree days.

If you get a chance to watch the movie Satyam Sundaram, I’d love to hear your thoughts and how it made you feel. Please share your feelings in the comments!

Pooja Mattapalli

Exploring the Beauty of History: A Day at the British Museum - 2

 Exploring the Beauty of History: A Day at the British Museum -2 

Continuing my journey through the museum, I came across an impressive Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy idol. The intricate detailing and powerful presence of the deity immediately caught my attention. As someone with deep-rooted religious beliefs, and being Indian, seeing this revered figure in the British Museum filled me with excitement. I couldn’t resist capturing a picture, as it felt both familiar and awe-inspiring to see such an important part of our heritage displayed in this global cultural hub.

In the same way, I came across several more Hindu idols, both goddesses and gods. Each one was beautifully crafted, with intricate details that highlighted the devotion and artistry involved. Seeing these idols of deities, so significant in Hindu culture, gave me a sense of pride and connection. It was fascinating to witness how our rich religious heritage was preserved and displayed here, and I couldn’t resist capturing more pictures to remember these stunning pieces.

Later, my attention was drawn to a display featuring a beautiful bird species—I believe it was a hummingbird. Its vibrant colors and delicate form instantly caught my eye. The tiny bird looked so graceful, and I couldn’t resist capturing a photo of it.

Later, my attention was captured by a stunning collection of delicate porcelain tableware adorned with intricate floral motifs and butterflies. The style and decoration suggested that these pieces were likely from Royal Crown Derby, and I was immediately drawn to the elegance and craftsmanship of the set. The design was truly beautiful, and the colors were incredibly vibrant and attractive.

Do you like this kind of art? I found it impossible not to admire the artistry behind each piece. It felt as though every detail was crafted with care, adding to the overall charm of the collection.

Talking about every single picture would take more time than I can share here, so I’m simply adding those photos without diving into every detail. That doesn’t mean I didn’t love them—to be honest, I absolutely adored every collection from the museum. Each exhibit had something special, and every artifact felt like a piece of history brought to life. Capturing them all was a way for me to cherish these memories and share the beauty of what I experienced.

Next, I explored the clock collection, and I was amazed by how unique each clock was. Every piece had its own character and intricate design, showcasing different styles and craftsmanship from various periods. Among all the incredible clocks, I managed to capture a few of my favorites, but honestly, the entire collection was fascinating. It was impressive to see how timepieces have evolved while maintaining their elegance and precision.

Later, my attention was drawn to a fascinating treasure chest or cabinet—I’m not entirely sure what it’s exactly called. If I’m mistaken, feel free to correct me! Regardless, it looked absolutely stunning. The craftsmanship was incredible, with intricate designs and rich detailing that made it truly stand out. Don’t you think it’s amazing? I couldn’t help but admire it. I really loved the way it was presented—it felt like a piece straight out of history, full of stories and secrets.

Then, I arrived at the jewelry collection, where I was greeted by an array of beautiful pieces. Each one looked so simple yet sweet, showcasing timeless elegance. Among all the stunning designs, I captured two that stood out to me—the peacock locket and the pearl chain. These two were my absolute favorites, with the delicate details and graceful designs making them feel truly special.

                                  

By the time we realized, it was already 2 PM. We hadn’t had breakfast, and now it was well past lunchtime, so we decided to meet up and grab some French fries. We were on the other side of the museum when my husband casually mentioned, "This is nothing but the British Museum." Since I didn’t know much about it beforehand, I simply responded, "Oh, nice."

But honestly, I was so happy to be there, enjoying it like a treasure hunt, discovering something new in every single room. Do you feel the same way when you visit places like this? It’s like a never-ending adventure of uncovering hidden gems.

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After lunch, my husband and I split up to explore the British Museum, and let me tell you, it was massive! We entered through one entrance and found ourselves exiting at a completely different one, losing track of just how large the museum truly is. I’ve shared some beautiful pictures from our visit to give you a glimpse of the stunning collection.

To give you a better idea of my journey through the museum, I’ll start by mentioning the layout: the museum consists of three floors—ground, lower, and upper. While reviewing my notes, I realized we entered through the Montague Place entrance. I made a checklist of all the places I wanted to cover, and I’m happy to report that I managed to explore almost everything on the ground floor.

Taking the west stairs to the upper floor, I explored rooms 57, 58, 59, and 68 through 73. However, my adventure had to come to an end when my husband called to say he was tired and needed to leave.

Overall, this journey felt like a treasure hunt, where I was exploring the world through the museum’s incredible exhibits. I’d love to hear your thoughts on my experience, so please leave a comment!

pooja mattapalli

Exploring the Beauty of History: A Day at the British Museum - 1

Exploring the Beauty of History: A Day at the British Museum - 1

A few days ago, I had an unexpected and delightful experience at the British Museum. It all started when my husband asked me to get ready because we were going out. Without asking too many questions, I blindly followed him, not knowing what he had planned. To my surprise, we ended up at the British Museum!

As we approached the entrance, I was still in disbelief. I hadn’t expected that we were visiting such an iconic place, and honestly, I was curious but also a bit confused. "What museum is this?" I wondered as I stepped inside, unsure of what to expect.

I had no idea about the British Museum before this visit, so I was genuinely surprised as we made our way inside. To add to the mystery, we entered through a different entrance, which made it even harder for me to realize where we were. As we walked through the corridors, I kept looking around, wondering what kind of museum this was.

I couldn't help but ask my husband, "Isn’t this museum really big? And isn’t it amazing?" The sheer size of the building and its grandeur left me in awe, but I was still trying to wrap my head around where we were. The architecture and the scale of everything inside were so impressive that I couldn’t stop feeling curious and excited.

After stepping into the museum, we came across an information stand that displayed a layout of the entire building, along with a detailed board explaining the museum’s structure. I was amazed to see that the museum spanned three floors: the ground, lower, and upper. Without wasting any time, I snapped a picture of the layout, eager to explore every corner.

In my mind, I was already determined: I have to see all the floors, visit every room, and not leave a single space undiscovered! The thought of exploring such a vast and historic museum filled me with excitement and curiosity.

As we ventured deeper into the museum's vast collection, I stumbled upon a truly captivating piece—a large, bronze tripod censer that stood proudly in the center of the room. Its intricate carvings and ancient patina immediately caught my attention. The craftsmanship over the top of it was simply mesmerizing, as if each detail told a story from a distant past.

I was drawn to the censer’s unique design and the historical significance it seemed to hold. The beauty of its artistry left me in awe. Unable to resist capturing this unexpected discovery, I took a photo, wanting to remember this mesmerizing piece forever. It felt like a small glimpse into another time, and the sheer beauty of it left a lasting impression on me.

After admiring the bronze censer, we moved on to the next floor, although I can’t quite recall which one. As we wandered through the exhibits, my husband and I unintentionally split up. He became fully immersed in reading every single word on the informational boards, carefully taking in all the details. On the other hand, my approach was a bit different—I would skim the headings and, if something caught my interest, I’d snap a quick picture. If it still intrigued me, I’d dive into the content; otherwise, I moved on quickly, eager to see what else the museum had to offer.

Before I knew it, I had left him behind, caught up in my own rhythm of exploration. I was enjoying the freedom of discovering the exhibits at my own pace, completely captivated by the beauty and history around me.

As I continued my exploration, I stumbled upon another fascinating artifact—a pair of intricately decorated sandals. The leather soles were beautifully adorned with detailed patterns and colorful embellishments, showcasing craftsmanship that felt timeless. These sandals weren’t just practical footwear; they were true works of art.

Being someone who deeply appreciates art, I was immediately captivated. The designs completely grasped my thoughts, leaving me in awe of the artistry behind such an everyday object. To be honest, they were so stunning that I found myself lingering, fully absorbed by the beauty and history they represented.

As I continued exploring, I came across a fascinating model of an ancient Egyptian boat. Its intricate construction and delicate details were truly remarkable. There were many incredible exhibits to see, but the craftsmanship in particular drew my attention. I’ve always been fascinated by arts and crafts, so I made sure to give these pieces special focus. The pictures I captured of the boat and other beautifully crafted artifacts left me in awe, as I found myself deeply appreciating the artistry from a bygone era.

I eventually found myself in front of a breathtaking piece—the Iznik pottery dish with the prunus tree. This dish was a stunning work of art, with intricate designs, vibrant colors, and delicate details that made the tree depicted on it truly captivating. It was yet another testament to the incredible skill and artistry of the craftsmen who created it.

Of course, there were many dishes like this one throughout the exhibit, each unique and equally beautiful. If I wanted to capture every single piece, I would have needed so much more time. So, I chose to photograph just this one as a special memory, though I’ll never forget how many beautiful and elaborate designs filled the room.

As I continued my exploration, I stumbled upon a captivating South Indian painting that instantly drew me in. The artwork depicted a Hindu deity, likely Brahma, and was filled with intricate details and vibrant colors. The artist’s skill was evident in the way they captured the deity’s divine presence, as well as the serene and spiritual atmosphere of the scene.

This painting felt like a true blessing, and I couldn’t resist capturing both the artwork and its description to remember it in detail. The painting was part of a portfolio of 63 illustrations depicting deities from Tamil lands, making it even more special and deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of South India.

As I wandered through the museum's galleries, I came across a captivating marble sculpture that immediately caught my attention. It depicted a young boy holding a basket of fruit, and the statue was brimming with life and movement. The boy's playful expression and the intricate details of the carving were truly remarkable, showcasing the artist's incredible skill.

The entire sculpture, carved from pristine white stone, was so perfectly detailed that every fold of the boy’s clothes and every piece of fruit seemed almost lifelike. Like this one, there were many more exquisite sculptures throughout the museum, each telling its own story through masterful craftsmanship.

Eventually, I found myself captivated by a stunning idol representing the Hindu gods of India. These intricately carved and painted stone figures were mesmerizing, each exuding a sense of spirituality and history. Seeing the name "India" in the British Museum filled me with excitement and drew my attention even more to the idols. It was a profound experience to witness the rich cultural heritage of my homeland represented so beautifully in such a prestigious setting.

Later on, I discovered a few other divine idols, and I was particularly drawn to the Ganesh idols. I felt compelled to capture a picture of these beautiful representations of Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings. Each idol had its own unique charm, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship that goes into creating such revered figures. I couldn’t resist the urge to document this moment, feeling grateful for the opportunity to see such culturally significant pieces in person.

As I continued my exploration, I came across a stunning Chinese enamelled silver vase that truly caught my eye. Oh my goodness, just look at the design! It was mesmerizing—the vibrant colors and intricate patterns created a visual feast that left me in awe.

I couldn't help but wonder about the craftsmanship involved in making such a piece. The delicate details and the overall elegance of the vase spoke volumes about the artistry of its creators. I found myself thinking, What do you think? It’s incredible how a single object can convey so much beauty and history, transporting you to another culture and time.

 

To be continued....

pooja mattapalli