Telangana, Zepto join hands to set up rest centres for gig workers in Hyderabad

The Telangana government has partnered with quick-commerce firm Zepto to open five dedicated support centres for gig and platform workers in Hyderabad. An agreement to this effect was signed under the banner of Project PRAGATI, with the facilities to be spread across the city.

These centres are designed to serve workers engaged in quick commerce, food delivery, e-commerce, apparel logistics, and other last-mile delivery networks. Each centre will provide an all-weather resting space, drinking water, washrooms, first-aid supplies, mobile charging points, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Periodic health check-up camps will also be organised, along with awareness drives to help eligible workers register under the central e-Shram portal.

The initiative responds to a pressing need highlighted by a 2024 HeatWatch survey of 166 gig workers in Hyderabad. The study found that nearly 69% of respondents lacked access to clean washrooms, while over 80% reported having no shaded or cooled rest areas during work hours.

Under the arrangement, Zepto will fund and maintain the centres on a continuing basis. The specific locations will be chosen jointly by the company and the state government, and each facility is expected to see hundreds of worker visits daily depending on its position.

Speaking after the MoU exchange, Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary of the Metropolitan Area & Urban Development Department, noted that gig workers have become a vital part of Hyderabad's urban economy and that the city must address their everyday infrastructure needs. Zepto's Chief Operating Officer, Vikas Sharma, said the company is extending the amenities available at its own store network to delivery partners across all platforms through this project.