Delivery partners have average speed of 15kmph: Deepinder on 10-minute deliveries
In a recent statement, Zomato Founder Deepinder Goyal shed light on the mechanics behind the company’s 10-minute delivery system, which has been a subject of controversy among gig workers. A day after a strike by gig workers seeking a ban on the 10-minute delivery system, among other things, Goyal took to social media to clarify that the quick deliveries are enabled by the density of stores and not by delivery partners driving fast.
According to Goyal, the average speed of delivery partners is a mere 15kmph, which is a far cry from the high-speed driving that many might assume is necessary to facilitate 10-minute deliveries. “The rider drives an average of under 2kms in about 8 minutes…That’s an average of 15kmph,” he said. This statement is significant, as it highlights the importance of strategic store placement and logistics in enabling quick deliveries, rather than relying on delivery partners to drive at high speeds.
The 10-minute delivery system has been a key feature of Zomato’s service, allowing customers to receive their orders quickly and efficiently. However, it has also been a subject of concern among gig workers, who argue that it puts undue pressure on them to drive at high speeds and compromise their safety. The strike by gig workers, which took place a day before Goyal’s statement, was a testament to the growing discontent among delivery partners regarding the 10-minute delivery system.
Goyal’s statement is an attempt to address these concerns and provide a more nuanced understanding of how the 10-minute delivery system works. By highlighting the role of store density in enabling quick deliveries, Goyal is emphasizing that the system is designed to be efficient and safe, rather than relying on delivery partners to drive at high speeds. This is a significant point, as it suggests that the company is prioritizing the safety of its delivery partners, while also ensuring that customers receive their orders quickly.
However, the statement has also raised questions about the broader implications of the 10-minute delivery system. While Goyal’s assertion that delivery partners drive at an average speed of 15kmph may be true, it does not necessarily address the concerns of gig workers who feel that the system is unsustainable and exploitative. Many gig workers have reported feeling pressured to drive at high speeds, even if it means compromising their safety, in order to meet the demanding delivery timelines.
Furthermore, the 10-minute delivery system has also raised questions about the environmental sustainability of the food delivery industry. With the rise of quick delivery services, there has been a corresponding increase in the number of vehicles on the road, contributing to air pollution and congestion. While Zomato’s emphasis on store density may help to reduce the distance that delivery partners need to travel, it is unclear whether this is enough to offset the environmental impact of the 10-minute delivery system.
In addition to these concerns, the 10-minute delivery system has also raised questions about the labor rights of gig workers. Many delivery partners are classified as independent contractors, rather than employees, which means that they are not entitled to the same benefits and protections as traditional employees. This has led to concerns about exploitation, as gig workers may be forced to work long hours for low pay, without access to benefits such as health insurance or paid time off.
In conclusion, Deepinder Goyal’s statement about the average speed of delivery partners highlights the complexities of the 10-minute delivery system. While the system may be designed to be efficient and safe, it has also raised concerns about the sustainability, environmental impact, and labor rights of gig workers. As the food delivery industry continues to evolve, it is essential that companies like Zomato prioritize the safety and well-being of their delivery partners, while also ensuring that customers receive their orders quickly and efficiently.
Ultimately, the 10-minute delivery system is a reflection of the broader trends shaping the food delivery industry. As consumers increasingly demand faster and more convenient delivery options, companies are being forced to adapt and innovate in order to meet these demands. However, this must be done in a way that prioritizes the safety and well-being of delivery partners, while also ensuring that the environmental impact of the industry is minimized.
News Source: https://x.com/deepigoyal/status/2006738218339766488
About the Author
