Delivery partners have average speed of 15kmph: Deepinder on 10-minute deliveries
The concept of 10-minute deliveries has been a topic of discussion in recent times, with many raising concerns about the feasibility and safety of such a system. The debate took a new turn when gig workers staged a strike, seeking a ban on the 10-minute delivery system among other things. In response to the strike, Zomato Founder Deepinder Goyal took to social media to clarify the company’s stance on the matter. According to Goyal, the quick deliveries are enabled by the density of stores and not by delivery partners driving fast.
Goyal explained that the average distance covered by a delivery partner is under 2 kilometers, which is completed in approximately 8 minutes. This translates to an average speed of 15 kilometers per hour, which is relatively slow compared to the average speed of vehicles on the road. “The rider drives an average of under 2kms in about 8 minutes…That’s an average of 15kmph,” he said. This clarification is significant, as it highlights that the 10-minute delivery system is not dependent on delivery partners driving recklessly or at high speeds.
The density of stores is a critical factor in enabling quick deliveries. With a large number of stores located in close proximity to each other, delivery partners can quickly pick up orders and deliver them to customers without having to travel long distances. This approach not only reduces the time taken for deliveries but also minimizes the risk of accidents, as delivery partners do not have to drive at high speeds to meet the 10-minute deadline.
Goyal’s statement is also an attempt to address the concerns raised by gig workers, who have been protesting against the 10-minute delivery system. The workers have been demanding better working conditions, higher pay, and a ban on the 10-minute delivery system, which they claim is unsafe and unsustainable. By highlighting the average speed of delivery partners, Goyal is trying to reassure the workers that the company is not prioritizing speed over safety.
However, the issue of 10-minute deliveries is complex and multifaceted. While the density of stores may enable quick deliveries, it is also important to consider the impact of such a system on delivery partners, customers, and the overall food delivery ecosystem. For instance, the pressure to deliver orders within a short timeframe can lead to stress and fatigue among delivery partners, which can compromise their safety and well-being.
Moreover, the 10-minute delivery system can also have unintended consequences, such as increased traffic congestion and air pollution. With a large number of delivery partners on the road, the system can contribute to traffic chaos, especially in urban areas where roads are already congested. Additionally, the emphasis on quick deliveries can lead to a culture of instant gratification, where customers expect their orders to be delivered quickly, without considering the impact on the environment and the people involved in the delivery process.
In conclusion, the debate around 10-minute deliveries is a nuanced one, with valid arguments on both sides. While Goyal’s statement highlights the importance of store density in enabling quick deliveries, it is also essential to consider the broader implications of such a system. As the food delivery industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of delivery partners, customers, and the environment, while also ensuring that the system is sustainable and equitable for all stakeholders involved.
To achieve this, companies like Zomato must engage in open and transparent dialogue with gig workers, customers, and regulators to address the concerns and challenges associated with the 10-minute delivery system. This can involve implementing measures to reduce the pressure on delivery partners, promoting sustainable practices, and investing in technology that can help optimize the delivery process while minimizing its impact on the environment.
Ultimately, the success of the 10-minute delivery system depends on striking a balance between speed, safety, and sustainability. By prioritizing these factors and engaging in constructive dialogue with all stakeholders, companies like Zomato can create a food delivery ecosystem that is efficient, equitable, and environmentally friendly.
News source: https://x.com/deepigoyal/status/2006738218339766488