Kerala to Open Resting Hubs for Gig Workers in Three Cities

The Kerala Labour department is set to establish dedicated resting hubs for gig workers in three major cities as part of the state government's 100-day action plan. The initiative aims to address the long-standing lack of rest facilities for online delivery personnel who spend long hours on the road.

The first phase of the project will see hubs opened in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode. An allocation of ₹1 crore has been made for the initiative. Each hub will be equipped with toilet facilities, charging points, a television and seating space for workers to relax.

Locations have already been identified in all three cities. The hubs will initially operate from rented premises or vacant buildings owned by government departments. Daily-wage staff have been appointed to maintain cleanliness of the toilet facilities. In Thiruvananthapuram, the hub will be situated in the Statue area, near the Press Club.

Gig workers' unions have repeatedly flagged the absence of designated rest areas and restrooms as a major concern. With the number of gig workers growing in both urban and semi-urban areas, the government expects to expand the project to more locations based on the response to these initial hubs.

The resting hubs are expected to become operational before the end of September.