In a continued effort to enhance the well-being of delivery associates, Amazon India announced the expansion of Project Ashray with the launch of two new rest centre in Bengaluru. The centers have been established in different areas of the city, with one located in Electronic City, which is now operational, and the other in Cox Town. This initiative aims to provide essential support to drivers across the logistics eco system by establishing accessible rest points in strategic locations. Project Ashray has already made a positive impact with the establishment of its first center in Gurugram in collaboration with the Udayasa Foundation.
The expansion of ‘Project Ashray’ in Bengaluru is a crucial step in our mission to enhance the experience and well-being of delivery associates across logistics ecosystem. By providing dedicated rest points equipped with essential amenities, we aim to create a comfortable environment for all delivery associates. This rest points will serve as a vital resource, offering drivers a safe place to rest and recharge during their busy schedules, while also fostering a sense of community and ensuring they have access to the support they need on the road” said Karuna Shankar Pande, Vice President, Amazon Logistics, India.
“The launch of the latest Ashray centre in Bengaluru is a remarkable advancement in providing delivery associates with safe and comfortable spaces to rest and recharge. This initiative underscores the importance of ensuring safe working conditions for all associates in the logistics sector. We encourage other stakeholders to follow suit in providing essential support to associates, fostering a culture of support and responsibility throughout the industry,” said G Manjunath, Additional Labour Commissioner, Department of Labour, Government of Karnataka.
In line with Amazon’s efforts to ensure the wellbeing and safety of the delivery associates, the rest-points will provide a range of amenities, specifically tailored to the needs of delivery associates, while on the road. These rest-points will include comfortable seating, access to clean drinking water, and mobile charging stations, ensuring associates can rest, hydrate, and recharge during breaks from deliveries. The Ashray centres will also cater to the larger community, providing access to delivery associates from different companies. Each centre can accommodate up to 12 people at a time and will be operational from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The facility's usage will be free and limited to 30 minutes per visit per delivery associate. To raise awareness of these rest points, Amazon will implement various initiatives, including adding the locations to Google Maps for easy access. Additionally, parking spaces will be available at each centre.
As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting delivery associates, Amazon India is exploring the public-private partnership (PPP) model to develop additional resting facilities under Project Ashray. These facilities will feature guarded restrooms for women drivers, shade for protection against the elements, drinking water, mobile charging stations, internet connectivity, first aid support, and subsidized electric two-wheeler charging.
Additionally, Amazon has recently introduced initiatives such as an ambulance service for delivery associates and a six-month health and wellness program. Furthermore, the 'Sushruta' program focuses on the health and well-being of truck drivers, while the 'Pratidhi' Scholarship supports the education of delivery associates' children. Through these efforts, Amazon aims to foster a supportive ecosystem and a mindful workplace for its delivery associates.
