Why Mumbai Never Gets Fixed | Ex BMC Chief Subodh Kumar | Real Deal

In this powerful episode, former BMC Commissioner Subodh Kumar shares how he transformed Mumbai's real estate landscape with bold reforms, challenged corruption, and redefined urban planning. From exposing FSI loopholes to driving policy changes that generated ₹20,000+ crores in civic revenue, Kumar opens up on the political resistance, the builder nexus, and why good governance is more about intent than popularity. We also discuss Mumbai’s infamous flooding, poor roads, and the future of infrastructure like the Coastal Road and Atal Setu. A rare, unfiltered conversation with one of India’s most impactful bureaucrats. Don't miss it. 00:00 - Teaser 02:20 – Introduction – How Mr. Subodh Kumar changed Real Estate forever 04:47 – Building a Level Playing Field 11:29 – Why Urban Planning in Mumbai Is Practically Impossible 14:37 – Bombay to Mumbai: How the City Grew Without a Plan 20:50 – Flooded Every Monsoon: Roads That Collapse Every Year 27:29 – Cement Concretization of Mumbai - Crumbling Reality 42:53 – Where Do the Cars Go? The Issues for Parking and Open Spaces 46:32 – Why Traffic in Mumbai Isn’t Just About Bad Roads 49:28 – Activists vs. Builders: The Fight for Mumbai’s Future 52:59 – The Power of a BMC Commissioner 54:40 – Is City Governance the Failure of the Bureaucrat or Politician 57:06 - Are Government Officers and Politicians Silent Partners in Real Estate? 58:57 - The Most Dynamic Politician in the Governance Level 01:01:00 – The Real Estate Bubble Nobody Talks About 01:05:26 – Affordable Housing in Mumbai, is it Possible? 01:08:01 – Construction Mismanagement in the City 01:13:37 - Is Subodh Kumar Anti Builder? 01:19:40 - Best Floor Plans and Building Designs 01:25:46 – Has Subodh Kumar Received any Threats? 01:27:23 – From Inside the System: Public Vs Private Sector 01:31:12 - Foot Paths In Mumbai 01:31:42 - Conclusion