New Years Eve Strike by Gig Workers: Gig and delivery workers across the country have announced a strike on New Year's Eve. Gig and delivery workers unions say that employees associated with platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit and Zepto will not work on December 31. Due to this, there is a possibility of disruption in online food and grocery delivery. Despite this, customers in some areas of NCR including Noida are still getting prompt delivery. The question is how the services are running even amidst the strike.

Why did gig workers strike on New Year Eve?

Gig and delivery workers unions say that the platform companies are making them do more work, while the earnings are continuously decreasing. Workers have protested against unsafe delivery targets, arbitrary ID blocking, job uncertainty and lack of social security. According to the Indian app-based Transport Workers Federation, 50 to 60 percent of services were affected in many cities due to the flash strike on December 25. The strike of 31st December has been extended with these demands in mind.

In which cities of the country is the impact visible the most?

The impact of the strike can be seen more in big cities like Pune, Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad and Kolkata. The unions claim that many delivery partners are logging out of the app or refusing to take orders. This may lead to delays and cancellations in food orders, grocery delivery and last minute shopping. Especially on a busy day like New Year Eve, the pressure on the platforms has increased.

Why are deliveries being received in Noida despite the strike?

Delivery of Swiggy and Blinkit is continuing in some areas of Noida and NCR because not all the workers have joined the strike. Many platforms have continued services by increasing incentives, operating in limited areas and using part-time or backup delivery staff. Apart from this, some delivery partners are working despite the strike, so that their earnings are not affected. This is the reason why customers are still getting orders here.

What's next, what should customers keep in mind

The impact of the strike on December 31 may vary throughout the day in different cities. The unions have demanded government intervention and enforcement of labor laws on platform companies. The companies have not yet given any official statement. Customers are being advised to order essential items in advance on New Year Eve, because with increase in demand, the possibility of delivery delay or cancellation may increase.