Tag: gig economy

National

Blinkit, Zepto Scrap 10-Minute Delivery Amid Concerns Over Gig Worker Stress

allycaralgoa

Quick commerce companies such as Blinkit and Zepto have voluntarily scrapped their 10-minute delivery promises after concerns were raised by Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya regarding the growing pressure and stressful working conditions faced by gig workers.

According to reports, the move followed a meeting between government representatives and leading delivery platforms, including Blinkit, Zepto, Zomato, and Swiggy, where delivery timelines and worker welfare were discussed in detail. The discussions focused on the impact of ultra-fast delivery expectations on rider safety, mental stress, and overall work conditions.

The 10-minute delivery model, while popular among consumers, has long drawn criticism for pushing delivery partners to meet unrealistic timelines, often at the cost of safety and well-being. Labour authorities expressed concerns that such aggressive delivery targets could encourage risky behaviour on roads and increase physical and psychological strain on gig workers.

Following the deliberations, quick commerce firms reportedly agreed to reassess delivery commitments, opting for more flexible timelines that balance customer convenience with worker welfare. The decision marks a significant shift in how the gig economy platforms approach operational efficiency and social responsibility.

The development highlights the government’s growing engagement with the gig economy sector and reflects an effort to create a more sustainable ecosystem for delivery partners, who form the backbone of India’s rapidly expanding quick commerce industry

Travel

GoaMiles Becomes India’s First Cab Service to Offer Pension Benefits to All Drivers

Tanisha Cardozo

GoaMiles has announced a pioneering initiative that sets a new benchmark in the Indian transport and gig economy sector. The company has become the first cab service in India to introduce pension benefits for all its drivers. This move is aimed at securing the financial future of those who play a vital role in moving people across the country — the drivers.

Recognizing the daily efforts, long hours, and dedication of its driver partners, GoaMiles is taking a bold step toward long-term social security for them. The new pension program reflects the company’s commitment to not just providing transport solutions, but also creating a more humane and sustainable gig economy in India. It highlights a much-needed shift in the sector — from transactional relationships to a model based on dignity, security, and shared growth.

By integrating pension benefits, GoaMiles is sending a strong message: the people who power our mobility deserve more than just fares. They deserve a future they can count on. In an industry often criticized for lack of worker protection, this initiative stands out as a milestone.

With this step, GoaMiles hopes to inspire similar actions across the mobility sector, paving the way for a more inclusive and caring ecosystem for all drivers in India.

Human Interest

Chennai Leads the Way: India’s First AC Rest Stops for Delivery Partners Unveiled

allycaralgoa

In a pioneering move that sets a national precedent, Chennai has opened India’s first air-conditioned rest stops exclusively for delivery partners. This much-needed initiative offers comfort, safety, and dignity to the gig workers who form the backbone of India’s booming on-demand economy.

The scorching heat and long hours on the road have long been a silent struggle for thousands of food and parcel delivery riders across India. Recognizing this challenge, the Greater Chennai Corporation, in collaboration with leading delivery platforms and NGOs, has set up air-conditioned rest hubs in key locations across the city.

These rest stops are thoughtfully designed to provide:

  • ❄️ Air-conditioned interiors to escape the heat
  • 🪑 Comfortable seating and resting areas
  • 💧 Drinking water and charging stations
  • 🚻 Clean washrooms
  • 📶 Free Wi-Fi access

This project is the result of public-private partnership, with several delivery platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Dunzo, and Zepto reportedly participating in the planning and funding. NGOs working on labor rights have also contributed to ensuring the rest stops meet the needs of delivery workers.

The first set of rest stops has been strategically located near high-demand zones such as T. Nagar, Nungambakkam, and Guindy, making them easily accessible during delivery downtime.

Many delivery workers who have used the rest hubs are calling them a “lifesaver.”

“In this heat, it’s hard to keep going for 10–12 hours. A place to cool down and recharge—even for 15 minutes—makes a big difference,” says Karthik, a 27-year-old food delivery partner in Chennai.

This initiative is more than just infrastructure—it’s a statement of respect. It acknowledges the role delivery partners play in keeping modern cities moving. With Chennai taking the lead, other cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi are already exploring similar projects

As India’s gig economy continues to grow, initiatives like these highlight the importance of worker welfare in urban planning. Air-conditioned rest stops for delivery partners may be a small change, but they reflect a big shift in how cities value and support their essential workforce.

Chennai’s message is clear: comfort and dignity should not be privileges, but basic rights—even on two wheels.