Thousands of Indians, seeking a better life in the United States, have been increasingly using the “dunki route” through Canada to bypass the heavily monitored US-Mexico border. This route, passing through Canada’s vast and perilous border areas, has become a popular alternative for migrants attempting to cross illegally.
However, with tightening immigration regulations, stronger border patrols and rising tensions between Canada and the US, this route may soon become impassable.
As US President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office in January 2025, he has warned Canada to impose a 25% tariff unless it takes more aggressive action against illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
Illegal immigration has become one of Trump’s top priorities and his administration has openly criticised Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government for insufficient security measures along the US-Canada border, which they argue have allowed uncontrolled immigration and drug smuggling into the US.
Trump’s threat has added a new dimension to US-Canada relations, as he uses economic pressure to push Canada to enforce stricter immigration policies. In response, the Trudeau government has announced a $900 million plan to enhance border security, which could effectively shut down the dunki route that has grown increasingly popular among Indian migrants. This plan will also fund the deployment of drones, surveillance towers, sniffer dogs and helicopters along the US-Canada border.
The number of unauthorised immigrants in the US reached 11 million in 2022, with Indian nationals comprising 725,000, making them the third-largest group of illegal immigrants after Mexicans and Salvadorans.
While the southern US-Mexico border has traditionally been the primary entry point for undocumented immigrants, an increasing number are now turning to the northern border with Canada, seeking a less patrolled alternative.
In 2022, approximately 17,000 Indians or nearly 16% of all illegal crossings, attempted to enter the US through the northern border. By 2023, this number had grown to over 30,000 and in 2024, it surged to nearly 44,000 Indians, making up about 22% of total illegal border crossings.
Many migrants are willing to risk their lives and invest large sums to follow this perilous path, often paying human traffickers between $50,000 to $100,000 for guidance through the journey. Smugglers use a variety of methods to transport people, from hiding them in cargo shipments and vehicles to moving them by boats, trains and even commercial flights.
Some migrants also attempt to cross on foot in remote areas, enduring extreme weather conditions and grave dangers.
Additionally, a joint strike force has been formed to tackle transnational crime, including human trafficking and fentanyl smuggling.
Dingucha Tragedy
In January 2022, a tragic incident occurred when a family from India, including two children, froze to death near the US-Canada border while attempting to cross into Minnesota. Their deaths highlighted the severe risks faced by migrants on this route.
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