Anandnagar MPS School, Kurla has always been home to young minds eager to make a difference. Among them, Anushka Ahire, Aarohi Lagade, Aditya Singh, Ikra Ansari, and Shahid Akhtar came together with a shared vision—to solve a real-world problem. Their journey began with grand ideas, exploring issues such as noise pollution and electricity shortages, but these problems were too vast to tackle. As they delved deeper, they realised that the most impactful solutions often come from addressing the simplest, most common inconveniences. So, they turned their attention to something that affected them every day—the challenge of keeping their feet clean during Mumbai’s relentless monsoon season.
Walking to school in the monsoon is a daily struggle. Narrow, uneven roads turn to mud, leaving shoes soaked and uniforms filthy within minutes. More than just a hassle, the damp conditions bring real health risks—fungal infections, skin irritations, and constant discomfort. Curious if others felt the same, they asked fellow students. The frustration was universal—dodging puddles never worked, and splashes from passing vehicles made things worse. While the rains bring relief from the heat, they also make the simple act of getting to school a messy challenge.
The group put their heads together and envisioned a practical yet innovative solution—an attachment that could not only protect their footwear from mud and water but also actively clear the path ahead as they walked. They brainstormed different materials, designs, and mechanisms, determined to create something that was lightweight, durable, and easy to use. Their goal was simple yet impactful: to develop a product that would keep their feet clean and dry, reducing the daily hassle of arriving at school with muddy shoes and damp socks. More than just a convenience, this invention aimed to promote better hygiene and comfort, ensuring that walking to school, even during heavy monsoons, remained a pleasant and stress-free experience.
The team designed a hard plastic covering that fit securely over the soles of their shoes. What set this invention apart was its unique slider or brush mechanism at the front, which swept away dirt and debris as the wearer walked. Unlike conventional rain boots, which required a complete change of footwear, this attachment allowed students to wear their regular shoes underneath, keeping them both clean and comfortable. At the end of their journey, the protector could be easily removed, leaving their shoes spotless and ready for the day ahead.
After much thought and excitement, they decided to name their invention "Clean Step", a fitting title that captured its purpose—keeping their feet clean, dry, and comfortable while navigating the muddy streets during monsoons.
Sustainability was a key consideration in their design. Understanding the importance of reusability, they chose durable plastic materials that could be washed and reused multiple times. This ensured that their invention was not only practical but also environmentally responsible.
However, bringing their vision to reality was not without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles was ensuring that the product remained lightweight and easy to walk in. Unlike gumboots, which provide full coverage but do nothing to clear the path, Clean Step had to be both functional and comfortable. The team experimented with various materials and prototypes, refining their design through trial and error until they achieved the perfect balance of protection and weight.
Their journey was supported by MuSo and Standard Chartered, who recognised the potential of their idea and provided the resources to help turn it into a tangible product. Through this experience, these young innovators proved that even the smallest ideas, when nurtured with dedication and ingenuity, can create meaningful change.
Clean Step is more than just a shoe attachment; it is a testament to the power of youthful curiosity and problem-solving. By addressing a simple, everyday issue, this group of students demonstrated that innovation does not always require grand solutions—sometimes, it is the small, thoughtful ideas that have the greatest impact.
