Climate Change on Wheels!

The 'Science Express' is an innovative Science Exhibition mounted on a specially designed train, and is a fascinating expedition to the mysteries of the world, ground breaking discoveries, emerging issues of cutting-edge science and future oriented technologies. This year, HSBC has sponsored a dedicated coach on 'Climate Change - Cause, Effects and Mitigation', under the 'Earth Sciences Forum' banner.

Phase-III of the 'Science Express' was launched on 2 October 2009 from Gandhinagar Capital Railway Station. Chief guests for the event included Kartikeya Sarabhai, R. N. Verma, General Manager, Western Railways; Dr. Navalgund, Director, SAC ISRO; Rajkumar, Secretary, Science & Technology, Govt of Gujarat, and Stuart A Davis, CEO, HSBC India. In the current phase, it will travel to over 56 locations, covering about 18,000 kms in the seven months of its journey. At each location, it will halt for 3-5 days, during which time students and the general public will visit the exhibition.

The 16 Coach AC rake was especially fabricated for Department of Science & Technology (DST), Govt. of India by the Rail Coach Factory Kapurthala. The exhibits have been designed and developed by Max Planck Society Germany, a Noble laureate powerhouse. After its launch on 30 Oct. 2007 by the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India and Chancellor of Germany, it has been showcased in 100 cities across India in two phases. This exhibition, which created four National Records, received overwhelming response at all the halts. Over 35 lakh people, mostly students, have enjoyed learning about several aspects of science that are explained through interesting audio-visual exhibits and interactive tools.

Though the exhibition is open for all, it primarily targets high school and college students, encouraging them to pursue careers in science. Further, it strives to take modern research out of the lab and reveal just how relevant science is to everyday life. Visitors of this futuristic exhibition can learn how science is enabling society to face global challenges of the 21st century. There is no entry fee for the Science Express exhibition. Students and youth are encouraged to visit this exhibition in large numbers and take advantage of this innovative endeavor. More information about the 'Science Express' is available on the website www.sciencexpress.in