Government Puts Brake on 10-Minute Deliveries, Tightens Rules for Quick-Commerce Platforms

The government has imposed a ban on 10-minute delivery services offered by quick-commerce platforms, citing concerns over the safety and working conditions of gig workers. As a result, platforms such as Zepto, Blinkit, Swiggy, and Zomato will no longer be allowed to promise ultra-fast deliveries until further notice.

The decision was taken by Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya following a fatal road accident in Hyderabad that brought the issue of delivery timelines and rider safety into sharp focus. The incident involved the death of a two-wheeler rider, initially reported to be associated with Zepto, though the company later denied any employment link.

Government Intervention After Safety Concerns

The Labour Minister held discussions with major delivery aggregators to address concerns related to unrealistic delivery deadlines and the pressure they place on gig workers. After deliberations, the platforms agreed to remove the 10-minute delivery promise from their services.

A meeting was held with leading quick-commerce players including Blinkit, Zepto, Zomato, and Swiggy, where the emphasis was placed on ensuring safer working conditions, reasonable delivery timelines, and improved protection for gig workers.

Blinkit Removes 10-Minute Delivery Branding

According to sources, Blinkit has already complied with the government’s directive and removed the 10-minute delivery claim from its branding and promotional material. Other platforms are expected to follow suit in the coming days.

The move is aimed at improving road safety, reducing delivery-related accidents, and ensuring dignity, security, and fair working conditions for gig workers across the country.

Political Push for Gig Worker Protection

During the recent Parliament session, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha had raised concerns over the challenges faced by gig workers. He called for clear regulations governing app-based delivery and service platforms and stressed the need for social security benefits, fair wages, and safer working environments for gig workers.

The Hyderabad Incident

The decision follows a fatal accident in Hyderabad’s Mehdipatnam area, where a delivery rider named Abhishek lost his life after his two-wheeler collided with a bus. Initial police reports suggested that the deceased was working for Zepto, prompting demands from gig worker unions for compensation and justice for the family.

However, Zepto later clarified in an official statement that the individual was not part of its delivery fleet at the time of the accident. The company said its internal investigation—based on database verification, facial recognition checks, and CCTV footage from its store network—confirmed that the rider had no association with Zepto.

Company Response and Insurance Coverage

Zepto expressed condolences to the deceased’s family and stated that it had shared the findings of its investigation with the Mehdipatnam police to clear any misunderstanding. The company also reiterated that all active delivery partners on its platform are covered under a comprehensive insurance policy, which includes accident coverage of up to ₹10 lakh and health insurance of ₹1 lakh.

Looking Ahead

The government’s move signals a shift toward stricter oversight of the fast-growing quick-commerce sector. While ultra-fast deliveries have become popular among consumers, authorities have made it clear that worker safety and welfare will take precedence over speed.