The ambitious Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Science City in Patna is moving swiftly towards becoming fully operational, with authorities now concentrating efforts on completing the exhibit installations in its three remaining major galleries. This landmark project promises to transform science education and public engagement in Bihar.
Focus on Final Galleries for Immersive Learning
The Building Construction Department (BCD), which is the nodal agency for the project, has recently directed the executing teams to accelerate work in the three pending galleries: 'Sustainable Planet', 'Space and Astronomy', and 'Body and Mind'. The task of installing the interactive exhibits in these sections has been entrusted to the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) through its partner, Creative Museum Designers (CMD), at an approximate cost of Rs 213.86 crore.
Kumar Ravi, the Secretary of BCD, confirmed the progress. He stated that the work order for these three galleries has been formally issued to NCSM. The installation will proceed in a carefully planned phased manner: one year for the third gallery, followed by six months each for the fourth and fifth galleries, targeting a full readiness by 2027.
Current Status and Visitor Experience
Civil construction for the entire Science City, sprawling over a 20.5-acre plot near the Moin-ul-Haq Stadium, is already complete. The facility boasts five expansive galleries covering about 7,725 square metres, designed to host a total of 269 interactive science exhibits based on 26 themes.
Two galleries are already delighting visitors. The 'Be a Scientist' gallery, with its 12 installed exhibits, and the 'Basic Science' gallery, featuring 35 operational exhibits, were inaugurated and opened to the public. They offer hands-on learning experiences that have been drawing consistent crowds. Work is concurrently ongoing to install the remaining 47 exhibits in the Basic Science gallery.
"Presently, 47 exhibits are in operation in two galleries," Secretary Ravi noted. "The two operational galleries are already drawing visitors and delivering engaging educational content."
A Glimpse into the Future Galleries
The upcoming galleries are set to offer deeply thematic and relevant experiences. The 'Sustainable Planet' gallery will educate on pressing global issues like climate change, pollution, energy conservation, and sustainable development. The 'Space and Astronomy' gallery will take visitors on a journey from ancient cosmic observations to modern space technology. Meanwhile, the 'Body and Mind' gallery will provide a fun, interactive way for young children and families to learn about the human body.
All exhibit designs by CMD will require approval from a committee comprising BCD, the Department of Science and Technology, and NCSM before fabrication and installation begin.
The Science City was formally inaugurated by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on September 21, 2025, and opened to the public on December 22 last year. Alongside the galleries, the inaugurated facilities include a 500-seat auditorium, a 4D theatre, a dormitory for 150-250 students, a grand atrium with a Dr. Kalam statue, exhibition halls, a cafeteria, and ample parking.
Once fully complete, the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Science City will stand as a premier institution for sparking scientific curiosity and providing a unique platform for all ages to explore science through direct interaction and play.
