Raghav Chadha Calls on Government to Limit High Airfares for Maha Kumbh Pilgrims
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Synopsis
On January 28, AAP MP Raghav Chadha criticized airlines for their exorbitant fare hikes during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, urging the Centre to intervene and ensure air travel remains affordable for pilgrims.
Key Takeaways
- Raghav Chadha demands government action on high airfares.
- Airlines raised prices drastically during Maha Kumbh.
- Chadha calls for price caps on tickets for pilgrims.
- Alternative travel routes like Varanasi are becoming popular.
- Government is responding by adding more flights for key dates.
New Delhi, Jan 28 (NationPress) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP, Raghav Chadha on Tuesday condemned airlines for inflating ticket prices amid the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, calling on the Centre to swiftly intervene to ensure that air travel remains accessible for pilgrims.
In a video message, Chadha articulated his worries, stating, "For adherents of Sanatan Dharma, the Maha Kumbh signifies the pinnacle of faith and spirituality. Millions worldwide aspire to visit Prayagraj for a sacred dip, meditation, and penance. However, airlines have exploited this holy event for financial gain."
Chadha underscored the dramatic surge in airfares, remarking, "Tickets to Prayagraj that usually range from Rs 5,000 to Rs 8,000 are currently priced between Rs 50,000 and Rs 60,000. Such unjustified pricing has left countless devotees disheartened and unable to partake in the festival."
Calling for the Union government’s intervention, Chadha stated, "Airlines must not take advantage of this spiritual moment for profit. On behalf of all pilgrims, I urge the government to limit this exploitation by implementing price caps or guaranteeing affordable flight options for those traveling to the Maha Kumbh."
Chadha referenced a previous success, noting, "Previously, when we highlighted the issue of overpriced food at airports, the government responded by establishing affordable canteens. I am optimistic that our concerns will once again resonate, prompting airlines to lower fares for devotees."
The soaring airfares have compelled many pilgrims to consider alternative travel routes to Prayagraj, with Varanasi emerging as a more budget-friendly option. As of January 28, flights from cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru to Prayagraj were priced between Rs 24,000 and Rs 40,000, with some fares surpassing Rs 53,000. In contrast, flights to Varanasi were nearly 50% cheaper.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) recently convened a meeting with airline representatives to discuss the issue, urging them to increase flights and stabilize ticket prices.
Following this meeting, the Centre instructed airlines to add more flights to Prayagraj on significant holy dip dates, including January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), February 3 (Basant Panchami), February 12 (Magh Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivratri).
The current Maha Kumbh, one of the most revered festivals in Hinduism, commenced on January 13 with the 'Pavitra Snan' and will conclude on February 26, coinciding with Maha Shivratri.
Thousands of devotees are making their way to the Triveni Sangam – the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers – undeterred by the frigid temperatures.
This festival, celebrated with profound devotion, continues to attract pilgrims, with the upcoming Mauni Amavasya anticipated to host one of the largest gatherings. Authorities are working diligently to ensure the seamless execution of this grand spiritual event.
