Patna's Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Science City Advances with Major Exhibit Installations
In Patna, the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Science City is making significant strides towards completion, with the installation of the remaining 47 exhibits in the 'Basic Science' gallery poised to commence shortly. Officials have confirmed that conceptual designs and fabrication drawings are in the final stages, paving the way for this next phase of development.
Current Progress and Visitor Engagement
As of now, 35 exhibits are already operational within the Basic Science gallery, contributing to a vibrant educational environment. The project is progressing at an accelerated pace across all galleries, with the 'Be a Scientist' gallery having completed the installation of all 12 of its exhibits. Both of these galleries have been inaugurated and are open to the public, attracting nearly one lakh visitors since their launch, highlighting the growing interest in science education in the region.
Expansion into New Galleries
Civil works for the three remaining galleries—'Sustainable Planet', 'Space and Astronomy', and 'Body and Mind'—have been fully completed. Together, all five galleries span approximately 7,725 square metres and will eventually house a total of 269 interactive science exhibits based on 26 diverse themes. Kumar Ravi, Secretary of the Building Construction Department, provided insights into the ongoing efforts, noting that the design of 175 exhibits for these new galleries is currently underway through collaborations with the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) and Creative Museum Designers (CMD).
- The 'Sustainable Planet' gallery will feature 52 exhibits focusing on critical issues such as climate change, pollution, and energy conservation.
- The 'Space and Astronomy' gallery will include 58 exhibits, guiding visitors from ancient cosmic explorations to modern advancements in space technology.
- The 'Body and Mind' gallery will offer 65 interactive exhibits that delve into the complexities of human physiology and mental processes.
Financial and Operational Details
The total cost for the exhibit installation work is estimated at Rs 213 crore. Engineers involved in the project have indicated that fabrication will begin once the drawings are finalized and approved by the competent authority. An official emphasized that the exhibits will be highly engaging and interactive, designed to foster a hands-on learning experience for visitors of all ages.
Timeline and Quality Assurance
Ravi highlighted that efforts are being made to synchronize the remaining installations in the Basic Science gallery with the full setup of the other three galleries. The entire process is moving at a fast pace to make the Science City fully operational at the earliest, with a project deadline set for March-end 2027. All interactive exhibits are expected to be completed as per this schedule, supported by strict monitoring and regular site inspections to ensure quality and adherence to timelines.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Enhancements
In addition to the exhibit installations, construction of a sewage treatment plant (STP) and a water treatment plant (WTP) on the campus is progressing rapidly. Discussions have also been held regarding the opening of an additional gate on the Saidpur side, where a road is being constructed by covering a drain with drain boxes to provide direct connectivity with JP Ganga Path. Necessary instructions have been issued to the executive engineer to facilitate this improvement, which aims to enhance accessibility for visitors.
Future Prospects and Educational Impact
Once completed, the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Science City will serve as a premier hub for science education and public engagement in Patna. The diverse galleries will offer immersive experiences that cater to a wide range of interests, from environmental sustainability to space exploration and human biology. This project underscores a commitment to promoting scientific literacy and innovation in the community, aligning with broader educational goals in the region.
