Lucknow, Jan. 29 -- Ahead of Mauni Amavasya and other auspicious bathing days for the Mahakumbh Mela, airfares to Prayagraj from major cities have skyrocketed. While the ticket costs for Delhi to Prayagraj flights have soared to Rs.20,000 or more from Rs.5,000, one seeking to fly in from Mumbai must shell out anywhere between Rs.20,000 to Rs.56,000.

This surge in ticket prices comes as airlines capitalise on the heightened demand, with lakhs of devotees reaching Prayagraj for the auspicious Mahakumbh. The surge is despite the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issuing directives to airlines to regulate airfares.

Flying non-stop from Delhi to Prayagraj with Akasa Airlines will cost one Rs.24,262. Air India is charging Rs.28,739...