G20 Summit: Restrictions could impact 9,000 gig workers in New Delhi
G20 summit in New Delhi is expected to bring substantial challenges for gig workers and retail businesses in select areas of the city. According to a report from the Forum for Internet Retailers, Sellers & Traders (FIRST), approximately 9,000 gig workers are facing the possibility of losing their daily earnings due to the suspension of commercial activities within certain areas governed by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) for a period of three days, commencing on September 8, as reported by ToI.
These gig workers represent a diverse range of sectors, including food services, consumables, and those operating within fulfillment centers located within NDMC zones.
On an average day, they typically earn about Rs 450. In response to this situation, Vinod Kumar, president of FIRST, expressed the hope that the government would establish sanitized zones for market operations, allowing deliveries and shopping activities to continue while ensuring safety during the summit.
During the three-day period of the G20 summit, commercial establishments such as malls, restaurants, and standalone shops within NDMC limits will remain closed, further contributing to the economic challenges faced by the retail sector.
Online deliveries of products, excluding medicines, will also be prohibited within these restricted areas.
The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has raised concerns about the impact of these restrictions on popular markets in areas like Connaught Place, Janpath, Khan Market, and Malcha Marg. It is estimated that, collectively, these markets could suffer business losses of approximately Rs 100 crore during the three-day closure.
