Mumbai: Teen enlists dabbawalas to found 'same-day courier' co.

A 13-year-old Ghatkopar resident, Tilak Mehta, has started up a fast-courier service with the help of dabbawalas. 'Papers And Parcels', a delivery service which works via a mobile app, will enlist the help of some 300 dabbawalas to ensure packages reach intended recipients the same day.

Mehta came up with the idea at the beginning of the year when he urgently required a book from his grandmother's house in Borivali. He later decided to collaborate with dabbawalas, known for their efficient network and service.

Mehta trained the couriers in mobile technology.

To understand their operation, he travelled with them in locals. "In those 15 days, I learned how they function and the challenges they face. With a trainer's aid, I helped them to learn the tech as the courier service is based on technology and their tiffin delivery isn't. So it was very important for them to learn the mobile technology and be at ease while working with a mobile app."

Speaking about the challenges he thinks they will face, Tilak said, "During a four months' trail, we learned that tackling natural calamities is a big challenge. Besides natural disasters, traffic is another issue. We have been brainstorming to come up with a solution."

Dabbawalas will only be responsible to deliver the courier, which will be received by a member of the service. "The courier service is expected to deliver around 1,000 couriers a day. During the heavy rains last week, on July 9 and 10, we delivered at least 700 couriers each day in the city," said Ghanshyam Parekh, CEO of the venture.