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Delhi not suitable for Mumbai's dabbawalas |
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Supriya
Menon
Saturday, May 12, 2007 (Mumbai)
The dabbawalas in Mumbai are a unique
institution of the city, and have become part of
management mantras as they deliver homemade food
to thousands across the city.
Recently many of them toured the capital city to
sell their expertise to Delhi, and the results
were not positive.
''Earlier also there were plans to start in
other places, including London, but it is not
easy. For us, distance and time management is
most important. The stations need to be close to
each other and everyone needs to be served lunch
between 12 noon and 1 pm,'' said Anshuman Medge,
Dabbawala.
Known for their precision in bookkeeping and
delivery, plans were made many times before to
replicate their model in different cities.
While they were able to manage a set up in Pune,
logistics did not suit in other cities.
''The train system here works best for us. But
in other cities, even Delhi, it is not the same.
Also the distances are really far, so the road
is ruled out,'' said Anshuman Medge Dabbawala.
The dabbawalas have always been popular, even
Prince Charles was impressed with them.
Many have been invited to lecture in top
management schools and now the NCERT has
dedicated a chapter to them in their textbooks.
But for now, it seems that Delhi will not enjoy
this service.
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