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A 22-year-old Indian student named Akshay Doultani, who was working as an Uber Eats rider in Sydney, died in a bike accident last month. He had come to Sydney on a scholarship to study finance and was making a delivery when his bike collided with an SUV. Akshay’s death has sparked calls for transport reform to ensure better safety and employment rights for gig workers. Uber Eats has stated that they are committed to the safety of their delivery workers. Sakshi Post reported
A 22-year-old Indian student from Mumbai, who had come to Sydney on a scholarship to pursue a Master’s degree in finance at Macquarie University, tragically lost his life in a road accident last month. Akshay Doultani, who worked as an Uber Eats rider to support himself financially, was involved in a collision with an SUV while making a delivery on his scooter at an intersection in Epping. He was taken to the hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. This incident marks the 12th death of a food delivery rider since 2017, highlighting the dangers faced by workers in the gig economy.
Akshay’s aspiration was to provide a better life for his family by studying abroad and working hard. He worked as a food delivery rider several times a week to cover his expenses. His cousin expressed the immense grief experienced by his parents at the loss of their only son. The fatal crash is currently under investigation by the New South Wales Police and Safework NSW.
Labor senator Tony Sheldon, while confirming Akshay’s identity, emphasized the need for transport reforms to ensure the safety and rights of gig workers, who make up approximately 250,000 individuals in the industry. Sheldon called for basic employment rights and proper compensation for these workers. Uber Eats, in response, stated its commitment to the safety of its delivery workers and mentioned the existence of policies aimed at enhancing road safety. The company assured that Uber Eats delivery people in Australia are covered by a support package designed specifically for them..
