Patna: Bihar’s Urban Development and Housing Minister Nitish Mishra on Tuesday inspected newly constructed air-conditioned lounges for gig workers at Gandhi Maidan and Income Tax Golambar, describing the initiative as part of the state’s efforts to promote worker welfare and inclusive urban development.
The facilities, developed for delivery personnel associated with digital platforms such as Swiggy, Zomato and other app-based services, are intended to provide a safe and comfortable space where workers can rest during their shifts.
During the visit, Mishra reviewed the amenities available at the lounges and directed officials to ensure their smooth operation and regular maintenance.
Supporting A Growing Workforce
Speaking during the inspection, the minister said gig workers have become an integral part of the modern urban economy, playing a key role in the delivery of food, groceries and other essential services.
“The role of gig workers is becoming increasingly important in today’s urban economy. Providing them with a better working environment and basic facilities is among the priorities of the state government,” he said.
He added that the initiative reflects the Bihar government’s commitment to labour welfare and inclusive city planning.
Patna Among First Cities To Introduce Facility
Officials said Patna has become the third city in India to establish dedicated air-conditioned lounges for gig workers.
The facilities have been designed specifically for delivery partners who spend long hours on the road and often work in extreme weather conditions.
Each lounge can accommodate around 15 workers at a time and is equipped with seating areas, purified drinking water, mobile charging points and other basic amenities.
Authorities said the lounges are intended to provide relief from heatwaves, heavy rainfall and other adverse weather conditions that workers frequently encounter while carrying out deliveries.
Minister Interacts With Delivery Workers
During the inspection, Mishra interacted with delivery personnel from various digital platforms and sought feedback on their working conditions, daily challenges and requirements.
Workers reportedly welcomed the initiative and thanked the state government for creating a dedicated space where they could rest between assignments.
Several delivery partners described the lounges as a practical and much-needed facility, particularly during the summer months when temperatures in the city often exceed 40 degrees Celsius.
Part Of Smart City Initiative
The project has been developed under the aegis of Patna Smart City Limited as part of broader efforts to improve urban infrastructure and public amenities.
Yashpal Meena, Municipal Commissioner and Managing Director of Patna Smart City Limited, accompanied the minister during the inspection, along with senior officials from the Urban Development Department and Patna Smart City Limited.
The launch of the lounges comes amid growing national attention on the welfare of gig economy workers, whose numbers have expanded rapidly with the rise of app-based delivery and service platforms.
Officials said the initiative could serve as a model for similar worker-support infrastructure in other cities across Bihar in the future.
