People taking part in a clean-up drive at Leonard Lane in Richmond Town 

Leonard Lane in Richmond Town underwent a remarkable transformation on Saturday, thanks to a clean-up and beautification drive led by civic action group The Ugly Indians (TUI), in collaboration with residents, children, BBMP workers, and local traffic police.

What was once a garbage-strewn stretch, plagued by abandoned vehicles, has now turned into a walkable lane after 33 years. 

Kavitha Hemant Rao, a member of the Citizens’ Welfare Association, said: “We have formed a group to maintain cleanliness and ensure regular garbage collection”.

She added that the clean-up included pest control, tree-trimming, music, and ice cream stalls to create a festive environment.

Children donned aprons and joined in, painting walls under professional guidance. The project unfolded in phases—removal of illegally parked vehicles, clearing debris, planting pots, and active resident involvement.

TUI, known for action-driven civic campaigns, coordinated with BBMP to clean, repair walls, and ensure long-term upkeep. “Our goal is citizen participation. We provide tools and materials to help people act rather than complain,” said the TUI team.