The tragic death of a 55-year-old food delivery driver in Hangzhou, China, has sent shockwaves through the country, highlighting the grueling working conditions faced by gig workers. Yuan, affectionately known as the ‘Order King’ for his relentless dedication, was found unresponsive on his electric bike after a grueling 18-hour shift. His passing has ignited a fervent online discussion about the precarious nature of gig work and the rights of delivery drivers.
Yuan’s commitment to his job was evident in his tireless work ethic. He would often work late into the night, handling numerous orders and earning a meager income. He was known for his dedication, often pushing himself to work until 3 AM, only to wake at 6 AM for another shift. Despite the demanding schedule and exhaustion, Yuan was determined to provide for his family. He would often take brief naps on his bike, always ready to resume his work as soon as another order came through.
Just a month prior to his death, Yuan had suffered a leg fracture in a traffic accident while making a delivery. After recovering, he returned to his work to support his 16-year-old son, who was studying in Hangzhou after relocating from Hubei province. His dedication to his family, even after suffering a serious injury, underscores the economic pressures faced by many gig workers.
Witnesses reported seeing Yuan working tirelessly, often late into the night. His dedication and relentless pursuit of income were evident in his dedication to his job. His earnings, while seemingly significant, were just enough to cover his basic expenses. He earned between 500 and 600 yuan (approximately ₹ 5,900 to ₹ 7,000) daily, with earnings rising to over 700 yuan on rainy days.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern about the working conditions faced by delivery drivers in the gig economy. Many social media users expressed their frustration and concern, lamenting the lack of safeguards for these essential workers. One commenter lamented, “Another ‘Order King’ has fallen. Is there really no way to prevent these tragedies?” Another wrote, “He was in his 50s, the sole breadwinner for his family, working day and night. May he rest in peace. I hope he won’t have to race against time in his next life.”
Yuan’s untimely death serves as a stark reminder of the precarious nature of gig work and the need for better protections for these essential workers. The incident has sparked a call for more stringent regulations and worker protections to ensure the well-being of those who power the gig economy. While the convenience of food delivery services is undeniable, the human cost of such a demanding lifestyle cannot be ignored.
