Zepto Delivery Riders Go on Strike in Pune Over Low Pay and Rising Fuel Prices
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Pimple Chinchwad May 26: Delivery riders working with Zepto in Pune’s Pimple Nilakh area went on strike on Tuesday, protesting against low delivery payouts and rising petrol prices, which they say have made it increasingly difficult to survive financially.
The protesting riders claimed that despite a sharp increase in fuel prices and daily expenses, the company has not revised delivery charges. Riders gathered and stopped work, demanding better compensation and higher per-kilometre rates.
Speaking during the protest, a delivery rider said that petrol prices have risen drastically over the past few years while riders continue to receive inadequate payment for deliveries.
Another rider added, “Petrol prices which were earlier around ₹102-103 per litre have now gone up to nearly ₹111-112 per litre. But riders are still stuck at around ₹14 per kilometre. The rate should be increased to at least ₹20 per kilometre. That is why we are on strike today.”
The riders alleged that several protests have taken place in the past over similar issues, but according to them, their demands have not been addressed adequately. Protesters also pointed out that the ongoing summer season has increased the workload and physical challenges faced by delivery workers, making fair compensation even more important.
According to the riders, increasing fuel costs, vehicle maintenance expenses, and long working hours are severely affecting their earnings. Many claimed they are struggling to manage basic household expenses despite working throughout the day.
The protesting workers have appealed for media attention and public support to highlight the difficulties faced by gig workers and delivery riders across the city.
