‘That’s how you treat people…’: This man’s simple gesture for delivery riders reminds the internet how to be human

Delivery riders spend extended periods of time riding through busy roads, racing against time, and in hot conditions to ensure the timely delivery of packages. In the summer season, the conditions are more challenging because of the risk of dehydration. In this challenging situation, an act of kindness by a resident has taken the internet by storm. By placing bottles of water outside his house for riders, the man has done more than quench their thirst; he has reminded them of the presence of kindness in their day-to-day life. Such acts of kindness have taken the internet by storm because it has the potential to make a difference in the lives of people who are usually unseen.Vineeth K. provides water bottles just outside his residence, accessible to all who may be passing by. Delivery partners, who may be in a rush from one delivery to another, need not have asked for water. They simply take one bottle and go about their tasks. While very minimal, this gesture is indeed a recognition of just how much effort is involved in getting deliveries done, especially when this happens in hot summer months.Vineeth started this routine in the year 2022, and it was based on the observation that deliveries in summer are extremely tiring. Rather, it has become an annual routine for him. Every summer, water bottles are placed in front of his entrance without exception. Many people, according to Vineeth, feel relieved to see people caring for strangers without seeking any reward or credit for the same.Every year, Vineeth has to shell out approximately Rs 1,500 to buy around 300 water bottles. The water bottles are placed in such a noticeable corner of the household so that the deliveryman does not feel embarrassed to take one. Though the cost incurred may not be significant, the regularity of this initiative clearly marks his genuine concern for societal responsibilities.When Vineeth posted a photo of the water bottles on X, it was met with a positive reaction. People liked the practicality of the project and how it made an impact. Some people even noted that this is what raises hopes in humanity, especially at this point, when delivery personnel are oftentimes disregarded despite their importance in people's lives.Nonetheless, several users have shown willingness to implement such strategies, for example, by keeping clay vessels containing water outside their residences. Other users have demonstrated a high level of awareness by suggesting that the bottles be kept in the shade to avoid direct sunlight from hitting the plastic. Additionally, several users have shared experiences where they have given buttermilk or water to the delivery personnel.