No timers for delivery workers: Zomato's Deepinder Goyal explains Blinkit’s 10-minute delivery promise

Fast deliveries are often celebrated—but sometimes misunderstood. Blinkit’s promise of delivering groceries in 10 minutes has left many questioning whether riders are being pushed to dangerous limits. Deepinder Goyal, founder of Zomato-Blinkit, recently took to X to set the record straight, explaining how the system actually works, why riders aren’t pressured to speed, and what life on the gig really looks like. His detailed clarification sheds light on the logistics, safety, and fairness behind the ultra-fast delivery model.

Deepinder Goyal explained that the 10-minute delivery promise isn’t achieved by asking riders to drive faster. In fact, Blinkit delivery partners don’t even have a timer on their app to show the promised delivery time. Once an order is placed, it is picked and packed within 2.5 minutes, and the rider then covers an average distance of under 2 kilometres in roughly 8 minutes, travelling at about 15 km/h.

Many people assume 10-minute deliveries are risky, but Goyal pointed out that the real complexity lies in system design, not reckless driving. The density of stores around homes ensures speed while keeping riders safe. He also noted that millions of Indians voluntarily choose gig work for its flexibility, and talking to riders reveals their rational and honest perspective about the job.




When asked about medical insurance, career progression, hiring, penalties, and attrition, Goyal clarified that all riders have medical and life insurance. Gig work is temporary for most, and anyone with a valid driver’s license and a clean background check can join. There are no penalties for late deliveries, and the high attrition rate of 65% reflects the temporary nature of the work rather than exploitation. He added that riders drive safely and may sometimes face delays due to traffic in dense neighbourhoods.

Internet reacts

A user asked why Blinkit delivery partners are often seen rushing and breaking traffic rules, and whether there’s any incentive behind it, also seeking suggestions to encourage safer driving. Deepinder Goyal explained that delivery partners aren’t uniquely reckless—many Indians rush on the roads, and the visibility of riders in uniforms makes people notice them more. Another commenter noted that the focus should be on improving riders’ welfare through health insurance and support, rather than critiquing pay. A third user shared their experience receiving deliveries from Blinkit, Instamart, and Zepto, emphasizing that reliability and dignity of work matter more than meeting a 10-minute promise, and suggested removing miscreants from the system.