‘This isn’t about a Rs 10 rain bonus’: Zomato agent falls into open drain in Hyderabad, video sparks outrage

The delivery agent's phone was swept away, and his motorcycle suffered significant damage.

New Delhi | August 12, 2025 11:14 AM IST

3 min read

In the viral video, a man can be heard offering a pipe. “Take this pipe, tie it to the vehicle, and we will pull you out.”

A food delivery worker had a close shave after he fell into an open drain amid heavy rain in Hyderabad while on duty on Saturday. The video of the incident that has gone viral shows bystanders rushing to help Syed Farhan, who lost control of his vehicle, and fell into the drain.

His phone was swept away, and his motorcycle suffered significant damage, NDTV reported.

In the video, a man can be heard offering a pipe. “Take this pipe, tie it to the vehicle, and we will pull you out.” With the help of several people, Farhan and his bike were eventually rescued from the strong waters.

“This is not just an accident — it is a direct consequence of platforms prioritising profits over worker safety. God blessed Farhan with his life yesterday, but tomorrow may be too late for another worker,” NDTV quoted TGPWU president Shaik Salauddin as saying.

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Social media users have slammed government authorities for not clearing potholed roads, while some have criticised the corporate culture of the companies that are keen on making profits. “In the new age India, it seems profits are more important than human life. Corporates like Zomato are more interested in providing shareholder returns than in the welfare of their employees,” a user wrote. “It is the municipality and local state government that is to be blamed. Had it been any other person, other than Zomato delivery boy, he would not have fallen?” another user commented.

“Funny thing is it’s not Zomatos fault…why no one is pointing out the government for having such life-threatening open potholes…someone not rushing for ₹10 bonus might meet the same fate,” a third user reacted.

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In response to the incident, Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU) strongly criticised food delivery platforms for putting profits before worker safety.

The union has urged Zomato to take full responsibility by replacing Farhan’s lost phone, repairing his motorcycle, and compensating him for his lost wages. “This is not about a Rs 10 or Rs 15 rain bonus — it’s about whether a worker returns home alive,” Salauddin said.

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