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New Delhi: Customers using quick commerce platforms like Zepto and Blinkit are facing delays in deliveries as extreme heatwaves disrupt operations, leading to a shortage of delivery partners and increased pressure on supply chains.

Rider shortages hit peak hours

The ongoing heatwave across Indian cities has made working conditions difficult for delivery partners, especially during afternoon hours. Many riders are avoiding shifts during peak heat, while others have temporarily returned to their hometowns for elections and the harvest season.

Despite companies offering additional incentives of ₹8–15 per order—on top of the usual ₹20–30—availability of riders remains limited. Industry insiders say that even with higher payouts, the harsh weather is discouraging workers from taking up deliveries during the hottest parts of the day.

Companies roll out safety measures

To address the issue, companies are introducing several worker-focused safety initiatives. Amazon has implemented heat-index tracking systems, scheduled breaks, hydration support, and electrolyte distribution for its delivery personnel.

Meanwhile, Flipkart, through its quick delivery arm, has enabled access to doctors for riders dealing with heat- health concerns. BigBasket has also introduced rest areas and incentive schemes to support delivery workers during extreme temperatures.

These measures aim to balance operational efficiency with the well-being of gig workers, who form the backbone of the quick commerce ecosystem.

Policy push for gig worker protection

The crisis has drawn attention from labour groups as well. The Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT) recently urged the government to enforce heatwave protection measures under the Code on Social Security, 2020.

The demand highlights the growing need for formal safeguards for gig workers, particularly during extreme weather events that directly impact their health and livelihoods.

Demand surge adds to pressure

While workforce availability has declined, demand for quick deliveries has surged sharply. Platforms such as Flipkart Minutes and Instamart are witnessing increased orders for summer essentials like beverages, ice creams, cooling appliances, and lightweight clothing.

Experts estimate that rider demand typically rises by 15–20 per cent during summer. However, this year’s intense heat has accelerated consumption patterns even further, with some brands reporting demand spikes of two to three times higher than expected.

Infrastructure expansion underway

To manage the surge, companies are expanding cold storage and refrigeration infrastructure to ensure product quality and faster delivery turnaround times.

Brands supplying perishable goods are also adapting quickly to meet rising demand, especially during consecutive days of high temperatures that trigger sudden spikes in consumption.

Conclusion

The delay in quick commerce deliveries reflects a broader challenge faced by the industry—balancing rising demand with worker safety during extreme weather conditions. While companies are stepping up incentives and infrastructure, the situation underscores the need for long-term solutions, including better labour protections and climate-resilient operations.