Main content

Transforming life in cities

Creating safe and comfortable living spaces in one of the poorest parts of Mumbai in India

In one of the poorest neighbourhoods of Mumbai, a quiet transformation is underway. Govandi has long been associated with poverty and poor health outcomes. But with the help of a civic organisation, the community has built vibrant spaces with children and women in mind— libraries, workshops, and leisure zones—defying the norms of city planning that can overlook such needs. We explore how trust, persistence, and grassroots collaboration turned a neglected area into a model for urban resilience and enjoyment.

People Fixing The World from the ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ is about brilliant solutions to the world's problems. We release a new edition every week for most of the year. We'd love you to let us know what you think and to hear about your own solutions. You can contact us on WhatsApp by messaging +44 8000 321721 or email peoplefixingtheworld@bbc.co.uk. And please leave us a review on your chosen podcast provider.

Presenter: Myra Anubi
Reporter/producer: Chhavi Sachdev
Editor: Jon Bithrey
Sound mix: Hal Haines

(Image: Reading exercises at Kitaab Mahal, Natwar Parekh compound, Mumbai, Natasha Sharma)

Available now

23 minutes

Last on

Mon 29 Sep 2025 02:06GMT

Broadcasts

  • Tue 23 Sep 2025 07:06GMT
  • Tue 23 Sep 2025 14:06GMT
  • Tue 23 Sep 2025 17:06GMT
  • Tue 23 Sep 2025 21:06GMT
  • Sat 27 Sep 2025 21:06GMT
  • Sun 28 Sep 2025 09:06GMT
  • Sun 28 Sep 2025 17:06GMT
  • Mon 29 Sep 2025 02:06GMT

People fixing the world on YouTube

Watch stories of people changing their world on the World Service English YouTube channel