Platforms brace for impact as gig workforce returns home

Quick commerce, ecommerce and instant home service platforms are facing gig worker shortages as delivery riders and helpers return to their hometowns amid elections and the harvest season.

According to industry executives, the daily active gig workers on quick commerce platforms are currently running 10-12% below early-2026 levels. The timing is particularly damaging. Typically, quick commerce as well as food delivery platforms see an uptick in demand during this period due to Indian Premier League (IPL) matches.