Police seize white-board bikes used for food delivery

 In a significant move, Bengaluru police have begun seizing white-board bikes used by food delivery workers, impacting Swiggy, Zomato, and other delivery platforms. As per regulations, white-board vehicles are meant strictly for personal use and cannot be employed for commercial purposes.

The police crackdown has left many delivery workers stranded, unable to continue their work without their bikes. According to officials, only yellow-board vehicles are permitted for commercial use, including food delivery. Since many delivery workers rely on their personal bikes, the sudden enforcement of this rule has caused distress. Hundreds of bikes with red Zomato or Swiggy delivery bags have been impounded, leaving workers uncertain about their livelihood. Many of these individuals take up delivery jobs part-time to supplement their income, making this action a severe blow to their earnings.

The move has triggered mixed reactions on social media. While some argue that the law must be followed, others criticize the decision as harsh, especially for workers who depend on these jobs for survival. Some have questioned whether the government approved this crackdown and urged authorities to provide a transition period. Experts suggest that delivery companies should assist employees in transitioning their vehicles to yellow-board registrations instead of abruptly losing their means of earning. Many have also called for a minimum wage guarantee for delivery workers. Meanwhile, seized vehicles have been taken to local police stations, with notices issued to riders.