The ongoing Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj has led to an unprecedented surge in travel demand from Ahmedabad, causing airfares and train ticket prices to skyrocket. With Mauni Amavasya, a sacred bathing day, scheduled for January 29, travellers are grappling with exorbitant costs and limited availability.
According to reports, airfares for flights from Ahmedabad to Prayagraj have climbed to an astounding Rs 71,000 for January 29. For earlier dates, ticket prices remain exceptionally high, ranging between Rs 33,382 and Rs 63,846 on January 27 and Rs 22,934 to Rs 53,402 on January 28.
Train travel has also been severely impacted. Sleeper class waiting lists for trains on January 28 and 29 have soared to 183 and 204, respectively. Many trains are fully booked, with some displaying “no room” notices.
Adding to the challenges, the Indian Railways cancelled the Udhna (Surat) to Prayagraj and Banaras train scheduled for January 28, affecting 1,700 passengers. Full refunds have been assured to the affected travellers.
Private bus operators have stepped in to meet the overwhelming demand, but they too are charging steep prices. One-way fares from Ahmedabad to Prayagraj have surged to as much as Rs 3,500.
The Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu pilgrimage, is anticipated to draw millions of devotees. To manage the influx, Indian Railways has introduced 170 special trains and 400 additional trains to Prayagraj. Many trains are being diverted to Subedarganj station to ease congestion.
Between January 13 and 23, 950 trains operated on these routes, with 425 trains ferrying pilgrims to Prayagraj and an equal number handling their return journeys.
Also Read: Mexico Denies Landing of US Deportation Flight Amid Heightened Immigration Measures