Quick-service platforms such as Snabbit and Pronto are pulling women from the informal domestic economy by offering flexible shifts and fixed monthly payouts that beat earlier, uncertain earnings. Backed by venture capital, they aim to formalize household work at scale, but the model still struggles with ensuring worker safety and long-term stability for employees.
As India’s heatwaves intensify, gig delivery platforms including Amazon, Zomato, Blinkit, Swiggy, BigBasket and Flipkart are rolling out tech-driven and on-ground heat safety measures. Companies are expanding insurance coverage, adding SOS and weather alerts in apps, installing cooling infrastructure in dark stores, and offering cooling vests, doctor consultations and rest stops. A union is now pushing for enforceable legal protections.
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As India’s heatwaves intensify, major e-commerce and quick-commerce platforms are stepping up protections for delivery workers. Companies are issuing cooling jackets and gear, setting up shaded or air-conditioned rest hubs, and adding health check-ups and medical support. The move targets the frontline workforce that keeps orders moving during the harsh summer months.
As temperatures rise and heatwave conditions worsen, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta ordered strict implementation of the Heat Wave Action Plan 2026. Outdoor work may be stopped between 12 noon and 3 pm during severe heat. Workers will get drinking water, caps and gamchas, while first-aid kits and ice packs will be provided at worksites when required.
India’s delivery workers have called a New Year’s Eve strike to protest long working hours, low earnings, lack of social security, and safety risks tied to ultra-fast delivery expectations. Gig work may be keeping cities moving, but workers say the “10-minute” model pushes them into unsafe conditions with little protection, prompting fresh pressure on platforms and regulators.
Amazon India says it will invest over INR 2,800 crore (about $300 million) to expand its logistics network while strengthening employee safety and welfare. The plan includes new fulfilment, sortation and last-mile facilities, climate and accessibility upgrades, and AI tools like route planning and dangerous-driving notifications as e-commerce demand surges.
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