Swiggy, Zomato Delivery Partners Launch Protest Against Rising Fuel Costs

Delivery services across several cities may face disruption on Saturday as gig workers associated with platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Blinkit and Zepto prepare for a five-hour strike against the recent hike in petrol and diesel prices.

The protest, organised by the Gig and Platform Service Workers Union (GIPSWU), will see delivery partners log out of their apps from 12 PM to 5 PM, affecting online food and grocery deliveries during peak afternoon hours.

The union has demanded that both the government and app-based companies immediately raise per-kilometre service charges, arguing that rising fuel prices are eating into workers' already limited earnings. Fuel rates were recently increased by nearly Rs 3 per litre, adding to the financial pressure on lakhs of delivery workers and drivers who rely on two-wheelers for daily income.

According to GIPSWU, the situation has become increasingly difficult for gig workers, many of whom spend long hours on the road in extreme summer temperatures and heavy traffic while struggling to manage fuel and maintenance costs. The union claims nearly 1.2 crore workers in the gig economy could be impacted if companies fail to revise payouts in line with rising expenses.

In the national capital, petrol prices have reportedly reached around Rs 97.77 per litre, while diesel is being sold at nearly Rs 90.67 per litre. The increase follows fluctuations in international crude oil prices and ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

GIPSWU President Seema Singh described the fuel hike as a serious setback for workers already dealing with inflation and declining savings. She warned that many delivery personnel may be forced to leave the sector if earnings continue to stagnate despite rising operational costs.

The union also highlighted the struggles of women delivery workers and drivers, saying many are working between 10 and 14 hours daily to maintain their incomes. GIPSWU said it has already submitted memorandums to the government and major digital platforms seeking revised delivery rates and fuel compensation.

Calling the strike a peaceful demonstration, the union said the protest is aimed at drawing attention to the worsening livelihood challenges faced by gig and platform workers across the country.