As Indian summers turn harsher, the gig economy is being forced to adapt in real time. Just days after Zomato introduced heat-focused support, Swiggy has rolled out specialised cooling vests-putting delivery partner wellbeing at the centre of its operations.
Developed as lightweight, passive cooling jackets, the vests use evaporative technology to regulate body temperature without electricity. Once soaked in water, the antimicrobial fabric slowly releases moisture, reducing body heat by nearly 6–7°C for up to four hours-an important buffer in temperatures soaring above 40°C.
The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with Shell Foundation under its SPACES programme, which focuses on scaling affordable and sustainable cooling solutions. Designed for durability, the vests can be reused across multiple summer seasons and come in adjustable, unisex fits.
While such measures may seem incremental, they reflect a larger shift. Platforms are no longer just competing on delivery speed or discounts-they’re being judged on how they support the people powering their ecosystem.
With heatwaves becoming longer and more intense, interventions like these could soon move from “nice-to-have” to essential. Early reactions across partner networks and social platforms suggest strong approval, especially from those experiencing the grind firsthand.
