Amazon India has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Government of Telangana to establish five additional Ashray rest centres in Hyderabad, expanding its support infrastructure for delivery partners and gig workers.
With the new facilities, Amazon’s Ashray network in Hyderabad will increase to 14 centres, providing delivery personnel from across the e-commerce and logistics industry with access to free rest and welfare facilities during their workday.
The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the Cyberabad Municipal Corporation, which will assist in identifying suitable locations, facilitating approvals and coordinating administrative support for setting up the centres.
Strengthening support for gig workers
Launched in 2024, the Ashray initiative is Amazon’s dedicated network of rest centres designed for delivery drivers across the logistics ecosystem, irrespective of the platform they work for.
Each centre is equipped with air-conditioned seating, drinking water, electrolyte drinks, mobile charging points, clean washrooms, first-aid kits and designated resting areas to help delivery personnel take short breaks during their shifts, particularly during extreme weather conditions.
The centres can accommodate up to 15 people at a time and allow delivery workers to use the facilities free of cost for up to 30 minutes per visit. They also provide parking facilities and operate throughout the year from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Amazon said the locations are listed on Google Maps to enable easy access for delivery partners.
State government backs initiative
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy said the collaboration reflects the state’s commitment to improving the welfare of gig workers.
“Telangana deeply respects hard work and those whose efforts power society and the economy. We are collaborating with Amazon India to establish Ashray Centres, a place where gig workers across platforms can meet, recuperate, relax and recharge. The hardworking workforce that partners with digital economy players keeps our modern life moving,” he said.
Expansion plans
Amazon India Director, Operations Salim Memon said the company plans to expand the Ashray network to 250 centres across the country.
“Ashray was built on a simple idea, that every delivery driver deserves a clean, comfortable place to rest during their workday. Our collaboration with the Government of Telangana marks an important step in strengthening this commitment to delivery drivers in Hyderabad,” he said.
He added that the initiative forms part of Amazon India’s broader investment of more than ₹2,800 crore to enhance the safety, health and well-being of associates across its operations network.
Partnership-driven model
Amazon is working with organisations including Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL), Udayasa Foundation and READ India to establish the new centres.
The company said the initiative complements its existing infrastructure at fulfilment centres, sortation centres and delivery stations, where it has already created rest areas, cafeterias and other employee welfare facilities.
Since its launch, the Ashray programme has established more than 100 centres across 16 cities, recording over two lakh visits from delivery personnel.