Patna: Air-conditioned lounges built in Patna to provide app-based gig workers with relief from extreme heat have come under scrutiny after photographs allegedly showing police personnel occupying one of the facilities went viral on social media.
The 24×7 Gig Workers’ AC Lounges, developed for cab drivers associated with Ola, Uber and Rapido, along with delivery partners from platforms such as Zomato and Swiggy, are currently operational at two locations in the city—near Gate No. 4 of Gandhi Maidan and the Income Tax Golambar.
The controversy centres around the lounge near the Income Tax Golambar, which was constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 15 lakh. Viral photographs circulating on social media allegedly show around eight traffic police personnel seated inside the air-conditioned facility, occupying sofas meant for gig workers.
According to the claims being shared online, some police personnel were seen chatting with colleagues while others appeared to be using their mobile phones. The images have triggered debate over whether the facility is being used for the purpose it was originally intended.
Lounge Built to Help Delivery Partners Beat the Heat
The Gig Workers’ AC Lounge initiative was launched by the Bihar Government in collaboration with Patna Smart City Limited to provide a comfortable resting space for app-based workers who spend long hours outdoors.
Each lounge is equipped with air conditioning, purified drinking water, mobile charging points, seating arrangements and resting facilities, offering delivery partners a place to recover from the scorching summer heat before resuming work.
Viral Photos Spark Debate Over Access and Usage
The viral photographs have prompted questions about the implementation of the initiative and whether the intended beneficiaries are receiving access to the facilities.
The issue has also reignited discussions on who should be allowed to use such public welfare infrastructure. Critics have pointed out that pedestrians, students walking to coaching institutes, rickshaw pullers and handcart workers, despite working in similar weather conditions, are reportedly not permitted to use the lounges, while the alleged presence of police personnel inside the facility has drawn widespread attention online.
No official statement has yet been issued by the authorities regarding the viral photographs or the alleged use of the lounge by police personnel.
