Airfares To Prayagraj Soar By 600 Per Cent Amid Maha Kumbh; DGCA Intervenes To Rationalise Prices

The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has led to a staggering surge in airfares, with prices increasing by as much as 600 per cent.

As millions flock to the world’s largest religious gathering, air ticket prices have skyrocketed, especially ahead of key bathing days like Mauni Amavasya on 29 January, reported Hindustan Times.

According to travel portal Skyscanner, one-way tickets from Delhi to Prayagraj are now priced upwards of Rs 21,000, compared to the usual Rs 5,000.

Flights from Mumbai range between Rs 22,000 and Rs 60,000, while pilgrims travelling from Bengaluru face fares between Rs 26,000 and Rs 48,000. The Maha Kumbh, which began on 13 January and concludes on 26 February, has already attracted over 12 crore visitors.

The sharp increase in airfares has drawn criticism, with many accusing airlines of profiteering during a period of high demand.

Aviation watchdog Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has stepped in, urging airlines to rationalise ticket prices for flights to Prayagraj. In response, the DGCA has approved 81 additional flights in January, bringing the total number of flights to the city to 132.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has also addressed the issue, stating, “I really want to delve into this issue (and) how to make them a little more accessible, available for the people of this country.”

The extreme price hike during festive and religious seasons has been a longstanding concern. A parliamentary panel last year recommended guidelines to control sudden fare surges.

The Uttar Pradesh government reported that 1.17 crore devotees took a holy dip at the Sangam on Sunday (26 January) alone, underscoring the immense scale of the event.

Airlines defend the price hikes as a function of supply and demand, but critics argue it disproportionately impacts pilgrims.

The Purna Kumbh, held every 12 years, remains a cornerstone of faith and tradition, drawing millions of devotees from across the globe. As the event progresses, the focus remains on ensuring affordable and accessible travel for the masses.