In the bustling city of Hyderabad, a food delivery driver was faced with a frustrating situation. Long queues at petrol pumps, caused by a recent fuel shortage due to a truckers’ strike, had left him tired and exasperated. In a bold and creative move, he made the unconventional decision to saddle up a bay horse and gallop through the streets to make his deliveries.
The strike had thrown the city into chaos, resulting in traffic jams and endless queues for petrol. The shortage was a result of the truckers protesting a proposed law imposing severe penalties for hit-and-run incidents. While the government’s decision to consult the truck drivers eventually led to the strike being called off, the damage had already been done.
In a viral video that quickly gained attention, the Zomato rider, with the company’s signature red bag slung over his shoulder, confidently made his way through the streets on horseback, surprising and amusing onlookers. He explained that there was no petrol available for his motorbike after waiting in line for three hours, prompting him to take matters into his own hands – or hooves – to ensure his deliveries were made on time.
In India, food delivery agents are a common sight, navigating congested cities to make speedy deliveries. The intense competition in the industry has even led to some companies promising deliveries in just 10 minutes, despite the chaotic and often perilous conditions on the roads. This has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of the delivery agents.
To address these concerns, food app companies have clarified that delivery agents are not given explicit instructions about the 10-minute deadline. Additionally, Zomato has assured that its employees are not rewarded for on-time deliveries nor penalised for late ones. The company also plans to introduce a phone number on the delivery bags, allowing people to report instances of speeding or reckless driving.
The sight of the resourceful food delivery driver navigating the streets on horseback captured the attention of passersby and inspired admiration for his determination and creativity. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability displayed by individuals when faced with unexpected challenges. With his horse-powered delivery mission, this modern-day hero has truly left an indelible mark on the streets of Hyderabad, embodying the spirit of perseverance and quick thinking in the face of adversity.