Science Express Biodiversity Special (SEBS) Train to be Re-launched

The Ministry of Environment & Forests  decided to re-launch SEBS (Science Express Biodiversity Special) train in the 2nd phase of the programme on 9 April 2013 from Delhi Safdarjung. The present run of the train is the 2nd Phase in the two phase programme envisaged to cover a minimum of 100 locations on Broad Gauge network of Indian Railway across the entire length & breadth of the country. Of the 16 coaches of Science Express- Biodiversity Special, 8 are solely dedicated to showcasing the myriad biodiversity spread across all the bio-geographical zones of India through a variety of interactive exhibits, short films & videos that are shown on Plasma & LED TV screens, large format displays, kiosks, backlit panels, and so on.

The rest of coaches have interesting & informative exhibits on Climate Change, Energy and Water conservation and topical issues in science. The popular Joy of Science Lab is mounted in an exclusive coach in which students are guided to perform various experiments & activities to understand concepts of various themes projected in the train. In addition, on the railway platform where the train is halted, young visitors are encouraged to play several exciting games as well as participate in quizzes, painting competitions, elocutions, just-a-minute, etc. The window panes of the entire train have also been judiciously used to put up posters on the numerous species of flora & fauna found in India which keep the visitors engaged while waiting for their turn.

SEBS was launched on 5 June 2012 (World Environment Day) with a view to create awareness amongst masses in general and youth in particular about the exceptional biodiversity of India.