Maha Kumbh 2025: 'Rationalise' airfares to Prayagraj, DGCA tells airlines amid sharp price surge ahead of Shahi Snan rush

As per the official data by the Uttar Pradesh government, over 10 crore people have taken holy dip in the Sangam during Maha Kumbh mela. (PTI Photo)

Amid the rush for the Shahi Snans, airfares to Prayagraj have skyrocketed. Latest data suggests that a one-way ticket from metro cities like Delhi or Chennai to Prayagraj’s Bamrauli Airport is currently costing Rs 50,000 or more. In light of this sharp surge, aviation watchdog DGCA has directed airlines operating to Prayagraj to “rationalise” airfares. In a post on X, the aviation regulator urged airlines to “increase capacity” to meet the high demand and regulate ticket prices.

In view of likely surge in demand, DG (CA) met airlines on 23 January 2025 and urged them to increase further capacity by adding flights and rationalize fares.
DGCA (@DGCAIndia) January 25, 2025

Additionally, the DGCA has approved 81 extra flights to Prayagraj to accommodate the demand. With this, the Sangam city will now have 132 flights from various parts of the country.

The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela is expecting over five crore visitors on January 29, which is one of the key Shahi Snan dates. According to the Hindu calendar, January 29, 2025, will be observed as ‘Mauni Amavasya,’ a very significant Shahi Snan date in the Maha Kumbh schedule.

According to a PTI report, data from travel portal Ixigo reveals a significant rise in airfares to Prayagraj. A Delhi-Prayagraj flight has experienced an increase of over 21% since the Maha Kumbh began on January 13. The 45-day event, touted as the largest religious congregation on the planet, will conclude on February 26.

Shahi Snans are important dates in the Maha Kumbh calendar. While taking a dip in the Sangam is considered auspicious, these specific dates are regarded as even more sacred than others. The mela will feature three upcoming Shahi Snans: Mauni Amavasya (January 29), Basant Panchami (February 2-3), and Maha Shivratri (February 26).

So far, over 10 crore people have visited the Triveni Sangam.