Bihar to Establish India’s First Power Museum at Karbigahiya Thermal Plant

Bihar to Develop India’s First Power Museum at Karbigahiya Thermal Power Station

Bihar is set to create India’s first power museum at the decommissioned Karbigahiya Thermal Power Station in Patna, marking a significant step toward preserving the state’s industrial and energy heritage. The initiative aims to document the evolution of electricity generation and distribution while promoting tourism and academic engagement in the power sector.

Project Vision and Heritage Value

Planned across a three-acre campus , the museum will trace the journey of power development in India, with special emphasis on Bihar’s role in the sector. By converting a retired thermal power plant into a knowledge hub, the project seeks to conserve industrial history while offering visitors an immersive educational experience. Officials have described the initiative as a milestone in revitalising historic infrastructure in the state capital.

Planning Process and Institutional Oversight

The project roadmap was reviewed during a high-level meeting chaired by Anjani Kumar Singh , advisor to the Chief Minister. Discussions focused on timelines, conceptual design and the process of selecting an executing agency. Senior officials from Bihar State Power Holding Company Limited and North Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited participated, highlighting strong institutional coordination.

Museum Objectives and Implementation Strategy

Work on finalising the executing agency and detailed project planning is expected to begin shortly. The museum is envisioned as a multi-purpose centre supporting tourism, academic collaboration and industrial research . Exhibits will showcase historic power-generation technologies, operational models, archival records and the expansion of electricity networks over time. The facility is expected to inspire students, engineers and researchers interested in energy systems.

Expected Impact on Tourism and Education

By repurposing an iconic thermal power site, Bihar aims to boost industrial tourism and enhance public understanding of the energy sector. The museum is expected to attract scholars, school groups and visitors, strengthening Patna’s cultural and educational infrastructure.

Exam Point

• India’s first power museum to be set up at Karbigahiya Thermal Power Station , Patna.

• Project spread across three acres of a decommissioned plant campus.

• Led by Bihar Museum in coordination with state power utilities.

• Focus on history of electricity generation and distribution .