The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has instructed airlines to boost flight capacity and adjust fares for Prayagraj during the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela, following widespread complaints from travelers about exorbitant airfares.
Flight prices from Delhi to Prayagraj have reportedly surged to Rs 25,000, a sharp increase from the usual Rs 5,000, prompting concerns among passengers. In response, the DGCA held a meeting with airlines on January 23, urging them to add more flights and implement more reasonable fare structures. As a result, 81 additional flights have been approved for January, bringing the total number of flights to Prayagraj to 132 from various parts of India.
“In light of the expected surge in demand, DGCA met with airlines on January 23 and recommended further capacity increases by adding flights and rationalizing fares,” the DGCA stated.
To accommodate the higher demand, SpiceJet announced the introduction of special flights from Guwahati, Chennai, and Hyderabad to Prayagraj on January 24. On January 25, Akasa Air expanded its connectivity by adding special flights from Pune, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Bengaluru, with additional services through Delhi, in addition to its regular direct flights from Mumbai.
Despite these measures, concerns about unfair pricing persist. Vishwa Hindu Parishad spokesperson Vinod Bansal criticized both the government and airlines for exploiting the high demand during the event. He called the increased fares “unfair and unethical,” stating, “This is an occasion for hospitality and respectful service, not for charging exorbitant fares.”
The Mahakumbh, which takes place every 12 years, is witnessing a massive influx of devotees. The event, which began on January 13 and will conclude on February 26, is considered the world’s largest religious gathering. Pilgrims travel to Prayagraj to take a holy dip at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, believing that it absolves sins and grants moksha (liberation).
Key bathing dates during the Mahakumbh include January 29 (Mauni Amavasya – Second Shahi Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami – Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).
While the government and various organizations are working to ensure the safety and well-being of the devotees, the DGCA’s intervention aims to address the pricing concerns raised by many. The situation continues to evolve as airlines strive to meet the surge in demand while balancing fare structures.
