Innovation on Wheels: Jabalpur's Unique Bus Revival Project

In a remarkable initiative, the city buses in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, have found a new purpose beyond their lifespan as they are transformed into river-side changing rooms for women. Under the visionary project called 'kabaad se kamaal' (waste to wonder), these buses are now serving the day-to-day needs of ordinary citizens in the city. Led by Swapnil Wankhade, the municipal commissioner of Jabalpur, the project aims to repurpose discarded buses and cater to various civic needs. Besides serving as changing rooms, the buses have also been converted into night shelters for the homeless and libraries for slum children. The project has gained widespread recognition, not only among the residents of Jabalpur but also internationally. It was applauded at a global contest of cities held in London by the Bernard van Leer Foundation, an organization working for the welfare of infants, toddlers, and young children. The decision to transform city buses into changing rooms was prompted by the urgent requirement for safe and protected spaces for women on the bustling Narmada riverfront. With permanent construction prohibited by the Supreme Court, repurposing buses provided an innovative solution. The success of this initiative has paved the way for further plans, including converting additional scrapped buses into mobile police chowkis to enhance women's safety and establishing a 'wonder house' for children at the Dumna Nature Reserve.