Pune-Varanasi rout
Special Correspondent
Pune: As thousands of pilgrims head to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela, airfares from various cities, including Pune, have spiked dramatically. The cost of one-way flights from Pune to Prayagraj has surged by a staggering 78%, causing a stir among travelers.
In addition to the Pune-Prayagraj route, other flights to nearby airports have also seen significant fare hikes. The Pune-Varanasi route has increased by 35%, while the Pune-Lucknow route has risen by 13%.
A viral post on social media highlighted the steep fare difference, with one user comparing a Pune to Dubai flight priced at ₹17,000 to a Pune to Prayagraj ticket costing ₹28,000. The post sparked humorous reactions online, with some jokingly suggesting a trip to Dubai instead, poking fun at the soaring costs tied to the Kumbh Mela rush.
In response to the demand, Akasa Air has launched daily flights from Pune to Prayagraj via Delhi. This new service, which started on January 28, will operate until February 28. Flight QP 1807 departs Pune at 7:30 AM and arrives in Prayagraj at 12:15 PM after a brief layover in Delhi. The return flight, QP 1808, leaves Prayagraj at 12:05 PM and lands in Pune at 5:15 PM.
For those opting for more budget-friendly options, many Pune residents are choosing trains and private buses. The Pune Division of Central Railway has introduced special trains to accommodate the surge in demand, while 300 to 400 private buses have been reserved for transporting devotees to Prayagraj throughout February.
Despite the rising airfare, pilgrims remain determined to make their way to Prayagraj to attend the sacred Kumbh Mela, exploring every available means of transportation.
