We are going through one of the toughest times in the history as the Covid virus overshadows our daily life. The pandemic thus has forced us to rethink every aspect of our lives, rich or poor. With various states enforcing lockdowns, it is important to remember everyone and assist them in meeting their basic needs.
Relief Riders in Bengaluru is an initiative of Urban Morph, which partners with the cycling community to promote Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The team is actively assisting senior citizens and the poor in providing basic necessities, groceries, food and medications on bicycles in Bengaluru, Hubballi, Dharwad and Belagavi.
Speaking to NewsKarnataka, Sathya Sankaran, Bicycle Mayor of Bengaluru & Co-Founder Urban Morph said that, “We realised that rather than being a part of the problem, we wanted to be a part of the solution. As a result of the lockdown, demand for delivery services has risen, however there are labour shortages to cater to the needs of people. So, we voluntarily stepped in to meet the need.”
When asked about why such an initiative was carried out using bicycle, Sathya pointed out that the pandemic indeed is a pressing concern but we must not neglect climate change also. “By riding a bicycle, we help the city to reduce pollution level,” he added.
He went on to say that the team circulates their posters among friends, families and also in social media. The call handlers deal with people’s requests which is sent to the back-office staff, who determine the ones who are closer, to avoid unnecessary travel. “The people we’ve helped have appreciated us, with some even referring to us as “life savers” and “doctors.” Apart from this, we have developed a hyperlocal, rapid response logistics network that is now assisting a number of non-profit organisations around the country,” said Sathya.
Relief Riders has already been launched in nine cities across the country and every day, nearly 700 volunteers send over 100 sorties to different sections of the society. They’re also collaborating with the Dutch non-profit BYCS to expand this service globally.
