During the torrential rainfall and severe flash floods that struck Hyderabad in mid-September 2025, delivery riders from Zomato and Swiggy emerged as unlikely heroes by actively rescuing residents trapped in waist-deep floodwaters. These brave individuals did more than deliver food-they saved lives and offered crucial assistance to hundreds stranded in the midnight deluge that turned streets into rivers.
Their courageous deeds quickly went viral on social media, earning widespread praise from citizens and officials alike, while spotlighting both the human spirit and urgent urban challenges Hyderabad faces.
Heroes in the Floodwaters
The heavy rains caused unprecedented flooding across Hyderabad, with water levels rising rapidly in many low-lying and poorly drained areas. Several eyewitness videos show delivery riders forming human chains, helping people and their vehicles avoid being swept away by strong currents.
In one remarkable instance, riders saved a man and his two-wheeler from drowning in waist-high water in Tolichowki. Despite the hazardous conditions, these riders risked their own safety to pull dozens-children, elderly, and families-away from danger.
Local residents hailed their efforts as acts of selflessness and solidarity amid chaos, and government officials also acknowledged their critical role during the emergency rescue efforts.
The Flooding Crisis in Hyderabad
Hyderabad’s devastating flash floods brought severe disruption to daily life, paralyzing traffic and flooding homes in key areas including Begumpet, Bagh Lingampally, Domalguda, Ashoknagar, and Shaikpet. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and Hyderabad Drainage Rejuvenation and Watershed Management Authority (HYDRAA) reported that rains exceeding 12 cm in short bursts overwhelmed drainage systems.
Structural issues such as blocked or silted nalas (water channels), encroachments, and inadequate stormwater infrastructure worsened the situation, forcing many residents into evacuation or unsafe conditions. Tragically, a young man drowned in the Balkampet underpass, one of the city’s notorious flood-prone spots.
Authorities have pledged rapid repairs and long-term flood mitigation interventions, but residents expressed concern over repeated flooding incidents linked to longstanding infrastructure deficits.
Official Responses and Ongoing Relief
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy ordered a coordinated relief response involving police, GHMC, HYDRAA, and energy departments to restore normalcy and help the vulnerable. GHMC Mayor Vijayalaxmi and HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath personally visited flooded colonies to oversee relief work and announced measures such as canal construction, desilting of drains, and reconstruction of weakened retaining walls.
Officials promised to address encroachments and improve stormwater management with comprehensive technical studies and infrastructure upgrades. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department issued continuing yellow weather alerts, warning residents to stay indoors and avoid waterlogged or underpass areas prone to sudden flooding.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The extraordinary courage of Hyderabad’s delivery riders during this crisis is a testament to the power of compassion and community spirit in moments of calamity. Their spontaneous willingness to help strangers transcends routine roles and inspires a deeper conversation about resilience and solidarity in urban India.
However, their heroism also underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms in city planning and emergency preparedness. Sustainable infrastructure must be prioritised alongside nurturing a culture of empathy and civic engagement to effectively face the growing challenges posed by climate change and urbanisation.
