Amid scorching heatwave, Zomato, Blinkit expand ‘insurance plan, SOS support’ and more for gig workers
Zomato and Blinkit, part of the Eternal group, have announced a series of measures to support their delivery partners during the ongoing heatwave in India. The company shared details of the initiative in a press release on Thursday. The move aims to strengthen existing efforts and introduce new measures to ensure the health and safety of workers working in extreme temperatures.
Insurance coverage expanded
Delivery partners are now covered by an enhanced health insurance program. To this, ₹5,000 with IPD (hospitalization) and day care coverage ₹1 lakh.
The program also offers personal accident insurance. ₹10 lakh coverage in case of accidental death. Additionally, delivery partners and their families (including spouses and children) have access to teleconsultations and online doctor services. The company will cover the entire cost of these premiums.
Emergency and SOS support
In case of medical emergencies, delivery partners can access ambulance services and 24×7 SOS support through a dedicated SOS button on Zomato and Blinkit delivery partner apps.
Weather tracking and alerts
The company said it uses a weather intelligence system to monitor seasonal patterns across India. Based on this, delivery partners receive timely in-app alerts and guidance to help them safely navigate extreme weather conditions.
Customer awareness initiatives
During extremely hot periods, customers using Zomato and Blinkit apps are encouraged to offer their delivery partners a glass of water. They are also asked to consider tipping as a gesture of support.
Blinkit-specific initiatives
Rest points and hydration support
Blinkit has outfitted its dark stores with summery amenities like pedestal fans, air coolers, benches and water dispensers. The company also distributes more than 1.5 lakh glucose sachets per day to its delivery partners.
Doctor@Store service has been expanded
Blinkit’s ‘Doctor@Store’ initiative provides free medical consultations and treatment for delivery partners and their families. The service, which initially launched in select locations, has now been expanded to cover approximately 50% of dark stores. The program has already facilitated more than 1.5 lakh consultations and is planned to expand further.
Zomato exclusive initiatives
Rest points around the country
Zomato now offers access to over 5,000 lounges across India, thanks to partnerships with restaurants. These facilities provide water, shade, seating and restrooms, allowing delivery partners to rest while waiting for orders.
Additionally, collaborations with TVS Motor Company and Shell have enabled access to rest stops at selected service stations and fuel pumps. These facilities are available to distribution partners on platforms that support the broader workforce.
Cooling equipment at subsidized rates
Zomato also offers refrigeration equipment at discounted prices through its delivery partner app. This includes lightweight sunscreen jackets with UPF 50+ protection, designed to provide protection from the sun and reduce heat exposure during long hours outdoors.
