Even with annual turnover in crores, Mumbai dabbawalas keep numbers in mind

New Delhi, June 14 (KNN) Mumbai Dabbawalas are called the lifeline of Mumbai not only because they cater to the needs of the ever expanding population of the metropolitan city on daily basis but also because they have been employing a huge workforce. They have garnered a turnover of over Rs 70 crore despite minimum technological facilities.

Talking to KNN, Subash Gangaram, Spokesperson, Mumbai Dabbawala Association said, “This organization has humble roots and every worker in this chain is independent and get their salaries well on time. They work day and night and we appreciate their efforts.”

He also said that these figures are never written on paper and filed and have not adopted book keeping even today since its inception.  The workers have independent group leaders that just keep these numbers in mind.

If he feels that the numbers are declining he himself takes steps to improve the graph.

He also offered insight on expansion plans of this business. “We are happy to cater only to Mumbai residents and have no reason to expand to other cities also. People in Delhi, Bangalore tried this venture and we provided them training for this, but unfortunately, it was not successful there. Hence, the operations had to be closed down.”

He further added, “In Mumbai it is popular because people don’t have time to take home cooked food to their offices. Also, local trains being the main mode of transport, it makes difficult for them to carry food.  In Delhi and other metropolitan cities people take their tiffins to offices and hence there is no such demand for such venture to flourish.”

Reflecting on the canteen system in offices, he sounded confident, “Canteen system is not a major threat to our business. It has led to just a marginal dip in our business as young professionals tend to avail these services. But, middle- aged people, due to health concerns are moving away from canteen system and are still loyal customers of our dabbas.”

He also threw light on their varied and skewed revenue system where a dabba may cost Rs. 500 also or even Rs. 1500 depending upon the distance.

Although the dabbawalas belong to the unorganized sector, it surely acts as a backbone of a huge workforce of India’s fastest city. It is commendable that despite lacking proper office set-up and even minimally educated accountants, these micro entrepreneurs add a quality value in terms of turnover to our economy. (KNN/ TL)