The groundbreaking ceremony for the Academic Science Block 1 (ASB-1) building was held on January 21, 2025. The new academic science block, which comprises a basement, ground floor and 10 upper floors, will house the Department of Chemistry and the Department of Chemical Engineering. It is designed to house state-of-the-art research laboratories equipped with advanced instruments, providing world-class research facilities in Chemistry and Chemical engineering.

The ceremony was attended by the Director of IIT Bombay Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Deputy Director (FIA) Prof. KVK Rao, Deans, Associate Deans, Heads of the Departments of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, faculty members, students and other distinguished guests.

Former Directors Prof. Devang Khakhar and Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri also attended the function. This event marks the official commencement of the ASB-1 project and underscores the collective commitment of the Dean IPS Office towards growth, excellence and a vision for a stronger infrastructure of IIT Bombay.