Option 1: Lord William Bentinck was the Governor-General of India from 1828 to 1835. He is known for his social reforms, such as banning sati and introducing English education. However, there is no historical evidence to suggest that he started the Public Works Department in India in 1848.

Option 2: Lord Dalhousie was the Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856. He is credited with establishing the Public Works Department in India in 1848. Under his administration, the department played a crucial role in the construction of roads, railways, canals, and bridges, which were essential for the development of India`s infrastructure. This initiative significantly contributed to the growth of trade and communication in the country during the colonial period.

Option 3: Lord Wellesley was the Governor-General of India from 1798 to 1805. While he made several contributions during his tenure, there is no record of him starting the Public Works Department in 1848.

Option 4: Lord Cornwallis was the Governor-General of India from 1786 to 1793. He is known for his administrative and judicial reforms, such as the Cornwallis Code and the introduction of permanent settlement in Bengal. However