Delhi Transport Minister, Kailash Gahlot, addressed thousands of delivery partners, commonly known as gig workers, at an event organised by Zomato and Blinkit at Talkatora Stadium on Monday.

The event focused on the benefits of electric vehicles (EVs) for delivery partners and provided valuable guidance on selecting the right vehicle.

Leading industry players, including EV two-wheeler manufacturers, fleet operators, charge point providers, and financing experts, shared their insights with the attendees.

In his address, Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot expressed deep gratitude to the delivery partners and called them ‘Pradushan Yodha’.

“You are the backbone of India’s economy, ensuring that millions of people can receive household essentials in minutes and enjoy meals from their favourite restaurants with just a click. Your dedication keeps our cities running smoothly. Your commitment to your work and to protecting the environment is truly inspiring. The Kejriwal government is with you every step of the way. Together, let’s make Delhi pollution-free by adopting electric vehicles,” he said.

Kailash Gahlot further emphasised the importance of transitioning to electric vehicles, saying, “Embracing EVs is more than just a technological change–it’s a crucial move to reduce pollution in our city. I encourage all platform partners to take an active role in this transition, helping to pave the way for a cleaner, greener Delhi.”

“The Delhi government, under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, remains committed to fostering an environmentally conscious city. We fully support the shift to EVs, recognising their significant environmental and economic advantages, and commend initiatives like EV Bazaar by companies like Zomato and Blinkit, which aim to raise awareness among gig workers,” he stated.

During the event, the Transport Minister also engaged with various electric two-wheeler original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and explored different lease models aimed at reducing the upfront cost of EVs, making the transition smoother for delivery partners.

Commenting on the event, Anjalli Ravi Kumar, Chief Sustainability Officer, Zomato, said, “At Zomato, we are committed towards facilitating 100 per cent EV-based deliveries by 2030. Building on the success of previous EV melas and bazaars, which influenced around 5,000 delivery partners to switch from petrol-based bikes in FY23, the EV Bazaar further supports Zomato’s mission to reduce last-mile delivery emissions. The event is designed to ensure that delivery partners are well-informed about the benefits of EVs and supported in their transition.

“Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot also highlighted the recently notified Delhi Motor Vehicle Aggregator and Delivery Service Provider Scheme, 2023, which outlines a phased transition to electric vehicles for aggregators’ fleets.The scheme mandates that by April 1, 2030, the entire fleet of aggregators must be electric, marking a significant move towards sustainable urban mobility in the capital. (ANI)