Challenge

Cities must transition to low-carbon development, but this shift must include the informal workforce. Often living in overlooked settlements they have little say in city planning. In Bengaluru, home to 2,000+ informal settlements, improving public bus services was identified as a crucial first step to ensuring equitable mobility while advancing low-carbon solutions.

PASI in Action

Collective Identity

In 2022, women from the informal workforce, civil society organisations, artists, and think tanks came together to form the Alli Serona Collective. This initiative aims to transform Bengaluru into a #PeopleFirstCity, ensuring that the needs of marginalised communities are central to the city's development.

Alli Serona, meaning “Let us meet there” in Kannada, was founded on the belief that inclusive, community-driven collaboration sparks meaningful change. Its identity was co-created through creative participation, with women exploring colour symbolism, typography, imagery, and illustrations that reflect their unity and everyday lives.

Interactive Bus Stop Installation

In 2023, the Alli Serona Collective conducted walking audits with 200 women from 9 informal settlements in Bengaluru, revealing a critical need for functional bus stops. In response, they co-designed a mobile bus stop art installation as an advocacy tool. Touring 4 key locations, the installation featured an interactive chair to gather votes and support. It spotlighted, to decision-makers and media, the mobility challenges of the informal workforce and served as a platform for the communities to demand improved transportation services.

Partners Involved

Alli Serona in collaboration with Aravani Art Project, Association for Promoting Social Action (APSA), Bengawalk, Studio Sorted, Flourish, Insomanywords

Impact

500 women leaders contributed, with 3764 votes collected. 5000+ residents requested improved bus stops. Alli Serona had 15+ interviews and received coverage from 55+ media platforms. 19 decision-makers supported, resulting in 3 approved bus routes benefiting 5000+ people.

Conclusion

A co-created collective identity nurtures belonging, purpose, and pride. Combined with an interactive public installation, it transcends traditional art, becoming a universal voice for collective aspirations.