The Hidden Cost of Convenience: Implications of Ten-MinuteDelivery Expectations on Gig Workers’ Safety, Mental Health, and Skill Development.

Abstract

The promise of receiving groceries and daily essentials has reshaped urban consumption by making 10-minute delivery a new standard and a new norm of convenience. Although the model provides convenience to the customers and a competitive edge to the platforms, it does not pay much attention to the mental and physical health of gig workers. The research revealed the hidden cost imposed by such systems by surveying and interviewing delivery drivers in Mumbai. The results have shown that the majority of drivers feel moderate to extreme pressure to meet deadlines, which motivates them to speed and commit traffic offenses. As a result, 1 out of 4 riders have experienced accidents or close calls, and it means that tight delivery schedules pose a high risk of accidents. Despite the existence of the platforms, most staff are not well educated on the benefits they have in case of accidents or emergencies, which makes them vulnerable. There are also mental health issues, including high levels of stress and physical symptoms, including headache and physical pain. In addition, their interaction with customers makes the situation worse, as they have to deal with daily rudeness and being threatened and a general lack of appreciation. To make matters worse, the gig workers receive inconsistent and insufficient break times which leads to exhaustion and accidents. The research indicates that gaps in safety education are urgent and that there is a need to institute systematic educational and policy based interventions that will guarantee the welfare of the workers as well as their employability. The results, in general, reveal that the 10-minute delivery model is more concerned with the speed rather than the wellbeing of the workers, which results in unsafe and mentally draining working conditions.