Amazon India has expanded its 'Project Ashray' by adding 40 new rest centres for delivery associates, taking the total to 65 across 13 cities, including 24 in Delhi-NCR. These centres offer air-conditioned seating, washrooms, mobile charging points, drinking water, and first-aid kits and are open to delivery partners across the e-commerce and logistics ecosystem. Operating daily from 9 AM to 9 PM with free access for up to 30 minutes, the initiative coincides with Amazon creating over 150,000 seasonal jobs across more than 400 cities, including positions for women and persons with disabilities, ahead of the festive season.
Amazon India has announced a major expansion of its 'Project Ashray', launching 40 new rest centres for delivery associates across the country in collaboration with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL). These Ashray centres are designed to offer delivery partners essential facilities, including air-conditioned seating, clean drinking water, mobile charging points, washrooms, and first-aid kits, creating a safer and more convenient environment for those navigating the challenges of urban deliveries.
With this addition, Amazon now operates 65 Ashray centres across 13 cities, with 24 located in Delhi-NCR. The company aims to establish 100 such centres by the end of 2025. Salim Memon, Director of Amazon Operations in India, explained that these centres are aimed at addressing the daily difficulties delivery partners encounter, such as heavy traffic, long working hours, and extreme weather conditions, providing a reliable space to rest and recharge.
The Ashray centres, whose name translates to 'shelter' in Hindi, are not limited to Amazon's delivery network alone. Delivery associates from across the broader e-commerce and logistics ecosystem can access these facilities. The centres are strategically placed at petrol pumps and commercial rental spaces, making them easy to reach during deliveries. Operating every day from 9 AM to 9 PM throughout the year, they allow associates up to 30 minutes of free access per visit, ensuring they can take short breaks without disrupting their delivery schedules.
This expansion coincides with Amazon preparing for the festive season, during which the company recently announced the creation of over 150,000 seasonal work opportunities across its operations network. These roles, spread over more than 400 cities, include both direct and indirect positions and are aimed at offering employment to a diverse workforce. Thousands of women associates and over 2,000 persons with disabilities (PWDs) are expected to benefit from these opportunities, reflecting Amazon's effort to make its seasonal hiring inclusive.
Past expansions of Project Ashray have shown a steady increase in the number of rest centres, starting with a smaller network in key metro cities. The current expansion is part of Amazon's broader initiative to improve operational efficiency while ensuring the well-being of delivery partners, acknowledging their vital role in the company's logistics and customer service network.
The centres also serve as an essential support system during peak delivery periods, such as the festive season, when delivery associates often face increased workloads and longer routes. By providing a dedicated place to rest, refresh, and access basic medical support, Amazon aims to reduce fatigue and improve the overall experience for its delivery workforce.
Source PTI
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