Historic railway landmark in Patna torn down despite centenary celebrations of Danapur Division

A century-old red-coloured structure known as the N C Ghosh Institute, once the pride of Khagaul in Patna district, has been largely demolished to pave the way for a new elevated road between Danapur and Bihta. The building, set up during the British era by the East Indian Railway as a premier recreational and cultural hub, was known for hosting plays, ballroom events, and grand social gatherings. Over the years, it had transitioned into a modest community hall, losing much of its earlier glory.

Demolition work began on Thursday and by evening, most of the two-storey structure had been reduced to rubble. Its grand ballroom — once a symbol of colonial opulence — lay shattered, its metal roof supports exposed. Ironically, this comes just months after the Danapur Division of Indian Railways, the building’s custodian, celebrated its centenary with pride in nearby Jagjivan Stadium.

Residents and heritage enthusiasts expressed deep sorrow over the loss, urging authorities to include preservation of historical structures in future development plans. With other heritage buildings like the DRM office, old railway schools, churches, and colonial residences still dotting Khagaul, citizens fear more such erasures may follow if conservation is not prioritised.

Though there’s no official archival proof of its construction date, heritage experts estimate the N C Ghosh Institute to be nearly a hundred years old. Named in honour of Rai Bahadur N C Ghosh, a 1934 divisional superintendent of Danapur, the building stood as a reminder of the region’s rich railway legacy — until now.